National Pawnbrokers Associationhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org
Pawn, Pawnbrokers, Pawn Shop, Online Pawn, Pawn Shop LocatorWed, 27 Mar 2019 16:59:37 +0000en-US
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1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.2https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/assets/2019/01/cropped-NPAicon-32x32.jpgNational Pawnbrokers Associationhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org
3232Arlington Loan – Chosen By Pawnhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2019/05/23/arlington-loan-chosen-by-pawn/
Thu, 23 May 2019 20:34:45 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=11203After learning the pawn business from his uncle, Kelly Swisher opened Arlington Jewelry and Loan, Inc. in 2002. The store, located in the suburban city of Arlington Heights, IL, northwest of Chicago, was the first pawn store in the city. In addition to running the store, Kelly is also president of the Illinois Pawnbrokers Association. “I truly believe the pawn business chooses you, you don’t choose it. I am thankful it chose me,” says Kelly.

National Pawnbroker (NP): In your opinion, what does the future look like for the pawn industry?Kelly Swisher (KS): We need to be very careful not to take for granted how fast laws can change that negatively affect our industry – both state and federal. Our industry has a bright future as long as we all participate, but we need to be vigilant. I think we will always find a way to loan on something of value. I’m sure pawnbrokers from just fifty years ago could have never imagined a world where pawnbrokers would be loaning money on micro drones and mobile telephones!

NP: What are your top three goals for 2019?KS: 1) Increasing our presence on social media and our positive reviews because this translates to more customers in the door. 2) Increasing the speed and efficiency of the loan writing process, whether that is through technology or our process, as long as it is not sacrificing the great personal customer service we are known for. 3) Spending the time and money to continually educate my coworkers through seminars, conventions, or classes that add to their knowledge.

NP: What marketing techniques do you use to generate traffic to your store?KS: We have several promotions that we run all year round one of which is a free birthday loan. If a customer originates a loan in their birthday month, the first month’s service fee is free. If a customer currently has an item in pawn during their birthday month, we will pay that month’s service fee. In both cases, it’s on loans up to $500.

NP: How does your company give back to the community?KS: We participate in many charity auctions and are always willing to donate a piece of jewelry for a good cause. For 10 years, we have helped sponsor a charity golf outing benefitting suicide prevention. For the last 15 years, we have provided a pizza party for the Arlington Heights police department during the holidays.

NP: What is the funniest thing that has happened to you since becoming a pawnbroker?KS: Just recently we had a customer walk in with a parrot on her shoulder. She acted like it was totally normal, so we acted like it was something that happens every day. I must say that it was hard to concentrate while a parrot looks at you swaying back and forth as if you were talking to it.

NP: Why are you a member of NPA?KS: Being the president of the Illinois Pawnbrokers Association has taught me how valuable it is to have someone looking out for our best interest. On more than one occasion, I have had to drop everything and run to Springfield (our capital) to oppose some new law that was suddenly introduced. Many pawnbrokers only hear about this after the fact or not at all.
The NPA is doing the same for our industry on a national level. Without the NPA, we would be unaware of issues in Washington and most likely not have the relationships with lawmakers that we need to protect our industry. It is always disappointing to me when I hear that a pawnbroker doesn’t belong to their state association or the NPA. In my opinion, the NPA is an extension of my business. They are looking after my best interest in Washington, just as our state association does here in Illinois. As an industry, we are powerful, but as one single shop, we have very little power.

NP: Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us.KS: I love to fight. I’m constantly training in Street Fighting, Krav Maga, and Ground Fighting.

For more of Kelly’s story on how he got into the pawn business, see his article, “Thanks, Uncle Jimmy!” in the Spring 2018 issue of National Pawnbroker.

]]>Congressional Update – May 2019: Potential CTR Relief for Banks and Three Rate-Cap Billshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2019/05/21/congressional-update-may-2019-potential-ctr-relief-for-banks-and-three-rate-cap-bills/
Tue, 21 May 2019 16:36:58 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=11198A big Thank You once again to our members that traveled to Washington and participated in NPA’s Annual Legislative Conference on April 30th. As we discussed then, NPA’s Team GRC continues working on the bank discontinuance issue, as well as following additional developments that could affect pawnbrokers.

This Content is for Members Only

]]>“De-risking” and its Effect on Access to Financial Services by Small Businesseshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2019/04/24/de-risking-and-its-effect-on-access-to-financial-services-by-small-businesses/
Wed, 24 Apr 2019 20:31:42 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=11186This Content is for Members Only
]]>NPA Trend Survey Reveals Pawn Industry Embraces Online Options for Retail and Marketinghttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2019/04/19/pawn-industry-embraces-online-options-for-retail-and-marketing/
Fri, 19 Apr 2019 13:00:55 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=11164The National Pawnbrokers Association Announces the Results of the Annual Trend Survey for the calendar year 2018.

Southlake, TX – The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) announced today the results of the NPA 2018 Trend Survey. The survey, which was conducted in spring 2019, focuses on industry trends as reported by pawnbroker members of the NPA for the 2018 calendar year.

One notable result indicated that 52 percent of pawnbrokers surveyed cited growth in their retail sales in 2018 as compared to the previous year. This trend of growth, of up to 25 percent, has been partially driven by pawnbrokers embracing online sales options. “American consumers are becoming accustomed to buying online, and this shift has moved pawnbrokers to adapt their brick and mortar retail model. Pawnbrokers are utilizing more online sales platforms, as well as engaging customers via social media as an advertising option,” said Tim Collier, pawnbroker and NPA President.

Pawnbrokers report that online sales either increased or stayed the same in 2018. Almost three quarters of the pawnbrokers surveyed use eBay to sell online. Other websites reportedly used for online sales are Craigslist, Buya, and OfferUp. 85 percent of pawnbrokers operate a website and report using social media for marketing – including Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube – with over 80 percent of pawnbrokers using Facebook. 19 percent of pawnbrokers surveyed don’t engage in online sales at all.

While pawn stores show growth in their retail sales, the number of pawn loans are reported to be on the decline. Non-recourse collateral loans are a primary service that pawnbrokers offer to customers who don’t have access to traditional banking services and credit. However, nearly 40 percent of NPA members surveyed reported a decrease in loans being made to customers. Mr. Collier added, “The decrease may be attributed to loan-seekers not owning items with intrinsic value, such as gold jewelry, which makes for solid collateral when obtaining a pawn loan. Consumers either sold their valuable gold jewelry at the height of the cash-for-gold era or simply don’t possess items with a dependable resale value.”

This downward shift has steadily continued over the last six years. Over 83 percent of pawnbrokers report pawn loans as their most common transaction. A typical pawn loan is $150 with 80 percent of loans being redeemed within 30 days or less. When surveyed year over year, however, pawnbrokers remain optimistic, as most predict that all business will continue to grow in 2019.

The NPA works to provide independent pawnbrokers nationwide with resources and tools to strengthen the pawn industry. NPA members are committed to operating their businesses in such a manner as to enhance and promote the positive and professional image of all pawnbrokers. Members believe in establishing positive and long-lasting relationships with local, state, and federal government officials. The NPA is the industry’s only national association and is located in Southlake, TX.

Pawnbrokers Connect and Learn with the National Pawnbrokers Association Website

Southlake, TX – The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) is pleased to announce the launch of its newly re-designed website at www.NationalPawnbrokers.org. The new website streamlines access to the association’s resources, key pawn industry events, membership services, and a trove of information and educational content focused on the pawn industry. It also features a searchable Member Directory, which lists pawnbroker members and industry partner members. The website will help connect pawnbrokers to vendors that serve their needs, as well as assist customers searching for NPA Verified pawnbrokers in their local area.

“One of the best features of the NPA website is the amazing amount of new and archived information that is available on the website,” notes NPA President and pawnbroker, Tim Collier. The website organizes hundreds of articles and posts which cover pawn business practices, regulatory and legislative updates, and educational material. Many of the articles have been re-published from National Pawnbroker magazine, and from presentations from Pawn Expo educational sessions. “The website offers information on everything from luxury handbag authentication and e-commerce to government relations and pawnbroker profiles. We hope the membership takes advantage of everything that we are offering on the new website,” said Collier.

Members can use the website to sign up for the annual NPA Legislative Conference, apply for CPP courses, and register for Pawn Expo, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry. Members of the NPA can also manage their membership online. The Membership Manage feature allows pawnbrokers to pay invoices, make donations, and update their business information and mailing addresses. Members can also offer NPA website visitors special promotions by posting in the Member Deals area. Member Deals can be offered by pawnbrokers to customers as well as by industry partner members offering special promotions to pawnbrokers.

The NPA has been online since 2000. The last website was developed in 2010 and was a significant step forward in the move to provide pawnbrokers valued online resources. The new website was launched in February 2019 and provides greater access to online services, legislative information, and ongoing educational tools. The NPA website has received almost a million visitors over the last decade. Peak website traffic was during the 2014-2017 period.

With the launch of the new website, the NPA consolidated several of its websites into one multi-functional site. This has allowed the association to save time, resources and money, while making it easier to navigate all of the content that the NPA offers to its members.

The NPA works to provide independent pawnbrokers nationwide with resources and tools to strengthen the pawn industry. NPA members are committed to operating their businesses in such a manner as to enhance and promote the positive and professional image of all pawnbrokers. Members believe in establishing positive and long-lasting relationships with local, state, and federal government officials. The NPA is the industry’s only national association and is located in Southlake,TX.

]]>NPA Verified Sealhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2019/03/26/npa-verified-seal/
Tue, 26 Mar 2019 23:49:36 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=11114This Content is for Members Only
]]>Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms & Explosives Final Rule on Bump-Stock-Type Deviceshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2019/03/19/bureau-of-alcohol-tobacco-firearms-explosives-final-rule-on-bump-stock-type-devices/
Tue, 19 Mar 2019 16:46:36 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=11127On December 26, 2018, the Dept. of Justice, BATFE published its final rule clarifying that bump-stock-type devices are “machineguns” as defined in the National Firearms Act of 1934 and the Gun Control Act of 1968. This rule becomes effective on March 26, 2019, and by that date anyone that possesses bump-stock-type devices is required to (1) destroy the devices pursuant to specific guidance OR (2) turn them in at an ATF office.

I will share a few FAQs that I have received in order to explain a bit further.

Women Find Success in the Pawn Industry

While it’s still a predominantly male industry, more and more women are joining the ranks as pawnbrokers. In 2016, NPA did an unofficial analysis of its member stores and determined that 24% were run by women. To celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2019, we are profiling six successful female pawnbrokers with varying backgrounds and experience. While their career paths have taken many turns, they are all exactly where they want to be – in the pawn industry.

Valerie Davis, Land of Entrapment, Albuquerque, NM

Years in industry: 6

Of the six women profiled, Valerie is the newest entry into the industry starting her career in 2012. She spent two years working at a pawn store before she and her husband, a co-worker, decided to venture out on their own and open their own store.

Being a woman can have some distinct advantages, Valerie says. “I believe men and women can see the same situation through different eyes. Women bring a different perspective.” Some female customers have told them they are more comfortable seeing a woman behind the counter.

But being a woman can have its challenges, too, says Valerie. She has had to learn to say no. “You can’t always please everyone, and that’s okay.” Her advice to a woman thinking about becoming a pawnbroker? “Grow some tough skin. I can’t feel bad for every person with a sob story. I have to detach myself from my empathetic side and remember that I have a business to run.”

One of Valerie’s shining moments as a pawnbroker came this past summer. “We have some sweet older ladies who pawn to make it to the end of the month. A couple of them had sent in family members to pay their interest because they were in the hospital. I was amazed, that even though they were not feeling well, they still kept up with their pawns. Needless to say, I waived their fees and sent them flowers. It warmed my heart to be able to help good people when they were down.”

Cathy Haggerty, Tom Cats Pawn, Bloomington, IN

Years in industry: 29

Cathy is the CEO/Owner of Tom Cats Pawn along with her husband, Tom. They started as a buy/sell business and transitioned to a pawn store to be able to loan to people who didn’t want to sell. The yoga/art teacher has a visual arts degree from Indiana University and also holds a GIA Diamonds certificate.

When asked if she felt any lack of respect because she is a woman, Cathy says, “Being a Midwest farm girl, the stigma has been pervasive throughout life. [But] times are changing and none too soon.” She would like to see more women in the industry in all different roles and feels women have more peripheral thinking and a calmness of mind.

Cathy’s advice to a new female pawnbroker is to “do your homework, know your rights, stick to your guns, keep an open mind and heart, and hire good people.” Ironically, the best advice Cathy ever received was “build shelves”.

Establishing a family/work balance is something all pawnbrokers strive for. Cathy’s secret is tenacity, stubbornness, following her heart, and putting family first.

Tonia Sheppard, Alan’s Jewelry & Pawn, Asheville, NC

Years in Industry: 21

Tonia Sheppard is a southern girl. Her family lives in Georgia and South Carolina, and she graduated from Mars Hill College in Mars Hill, NC, near Asheville. Her path to pawn started with an internship for a local ad agency that did marketing for Alan’s Jewelry & Pawn. Later, she was hired in-house by Alan Sheppard, her future husband, to handle all the marketing needs for the operation.

When it comes to pawn, she thinks customers sometimes still feel that women are not as knowledgeable as men. However, that is changing, she says. “Most people feel that pawnbrokers are almost always men, but are pleasantly surprised to see so many women in the industry now – a little softer side to a hard-core business.”

The best advice Tonia ever received came from Alan. She and all of their 80 employees know that “The day you feel you are better than the customer you are waiting on, is the day you follow them out the door.” It helps remind them that we are all at different places in life and being kind is paramount.

For Tonia, the biggest challenge as a pawnbroker is hiring a trusted staff. She feels lucky that they have great employees, some who have been with the business for 28 years. “Hiring great managers and an incredible human resource director have helped to keep us on track,” she shares.

Stacy Palagi, North Phoenix Pawn, Phoenix, AZ

Years in Industry: 24

At age 12, Stacy Palagi had two options: stay home and clean house or go to work with her dad in his pawn store. She chose the latter and became the official janitor later learning to write loans and evaluate merchandise.

As a young female, she had to contend with customers who didn’t trust her judgement. “When a customer asked someone else to help them, it really stung at first. But I think that it helped mold me into the strong woman I am today,” she explains. She also had to fight for respect from other employees since she was the owner’s daughter. “I had to show them that I was a team player and willing to get my hands dirty.”

Stacy’s best advice to a new female pawnbroker is to not take things personally. “Have broad shoulders. You have to find your balance between being empathetic, but not be taken advantage of.” One of the best pieces of advice she ever received is that every customer counts. “And if you aren’t counting them, your competition is.”

Stacy related that one of her biggest accomplishments as a pawnbroker was being asked to play an active role in their state association. Together, they were able to get a house bill passed that benefited their business.

Rachael Parsons, Dan’s Discount Jewelry & Pawn, Danville, KY

Years in Industry: 17

Graduating from the University of Kentucky with a degree in Merchandising, Apparel, and Textiles probably didn’t prepare Rachael for her job responsibilities in bookkeeping, cash management, financial reporting, inventory control, and human resources at Dan’s Discount Jewelry & Pawn. But after graduation, “I could not imagine a more exciting career. I fell in love with the industry and have been here 17 years,” she says.

Rachael felt some customers had an issue dealing with a woman in the beginning of her career, but explains, “Once you earn a customer’s respect, you are golden.” She feels women offer a unique perspective to the pawn industry and open the market to a wider customer base.

One of Rachael’s happiest moments as a pawnbroker was seeing a fellow employee, another woman, be promoted to store manager. “She was fierce in the best way and really earned the position of leadership.”

Being a pawnbroker requires being humble, yet confident, says Rachael. Her advice to a woman wanting to follow in her footsteps? “You do not have to be a man! Your opinions and life experiences are valuable. Your perspective is valuable. Own that! Be a leader. Be brave.”

Rosemary Hipps, Larry’s Jewelry & Pawn, Florence, AL

Years in Industry: 28

Rosemary Hipps started working in a pawn store after retiring from teaching. It had been her mother’s store, and when she passed away, Rosemary and her husband took it over. In the beginning, most of the male customers would ask for her husband, but not anymore. Now, many of their customers are women. “I think they appreciate having another woman present in the shop. They seem to be more comfortable talking to another female,” she says.

Her biggest challenge is fighting the negative image that pawn stores continue to sometimes experience.“When someone asks you what you do for a living and you tell them you own a pawn store, you can sometimes tell by the look on their face that the person is not having good thoughts.” That’s when she goes into teaching mode explaining how a pawn store operates and that most pawnbrokers are honest businessmen and women.

Rosemary’s advice to anyone wanting to join the industry is to always behave professionally when dealing with customers and employees. A successful pawnbroker needs to be friendly, courteous, organized, and knowledgeable about the pawn industry, she shares. One of the most important things is to maintain confidentiality with your customers. “Never go out and tell a friend the name of someone who came in to borrow money.”

Over the last 28 years, many of Rosemary’s customers have shared how much she has helped them. It makes you feel good, she says, when a customer, usually a female, says, with tears in her eyes, “I have just got to give you a hug. You have been a blessing.”

]]>NPA Alert No. 3: Republic Metals Corporation Chapter 11 Reorganization Proceedinghttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/11/26/npa-alert-no-3-republic-metals-corporation-chapter-11-reorganization-proceeding/
Mon, 26 Nov 2018 14:40:52 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=8057This Content is for Members Only
]]>Alert for NPA Pawnbroker and Vendor Members Who Have Been Customers of Republic Metals Corporation or its Affiliateshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/11/06/alert-for-npa-pawnbroker-and-vendor-members-who-have-been-customers-of-republic-metals-corporation-or-its-affiliates/
Tue, 06 Nov 2018 19:42:29 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=8039YOU MUST BE LOGGED IN TO READ THIS ALERT. ]]>This Content is for Members Only
]]>Pawnbrokers Provide Support for Military Families to Celebrate its 10th Annual Gift Dayhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/11/01/pawnbrokers-provide-support-for-military-families-to-celebrate-its-10th-annual-gift-day/
Thu, 01 Nov 2018 06:59:10 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=8025The National Pawnbrokers Association celebrates the 10th annual Gift Day by partnering with Operation Homefront to help provide critical financial assistance to military families.

Southlake, TX — On December 6, the National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) will celebrate the 10th year of its annual donation drive, Gift Day. Each year during the holiday season, NPA members come together to donate to community organizations that benefit those who need it most. This year, NPA members are asked to donate financial contributions to Operation Homefront. Operation Homefront’s mission is to build strong, stable and secure military families so they can thrive – not simply struggle to get by – in the communities they worked so hard to protect.

NPA president Tim Collier notes, “We are proud and excited to celebrate our 10th year of Gift Day with Operation Homefront, as pawnbrokers across the country have a rich tradition of giving back to their communities and supporting veterans and military families through philanthropic support on the community level.”

In past years, pawnbroker members of the NPA have contributed to VA hospitals, public school music programs, Wings for Warriors®, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation to provide musical instruments and monetary donations. Collier notes, “Operation Homefront will provide pawnbrokers across the country a direct link to help military families in financial need. We aim to make a real impact on those who need assistance on the home front this holiday season.”

Operation Homefront is a national 501(c)3 nonprofit organization which provides short-term and critical financial assistance, long-term stability and recurring support programs to military families. Donations from the NPA will make a real difference in their lives, because 92% of Operation Homefront’s expenditures goes directly toward programs and services for these families. Among its many achievements, the organization has fulfilled over 38,000 requests from military families across the U.S., providing more than $22.5 million in relief, accepted 600 military families into the Homes on the Homefront permanent housing program and provided well over $64 million in home equity to military families.

Gift Day is celebrated on December 6th, which is also National Pawnbrokers Day, and coincides with St. Nicholas Day. Saint Nicholas of Myra is famed for his generosity to the poor and for his penchant for secretly leaving gifts for people in need. St. Nicholas, recognized in America as Santa Claus, was canonized as the Patron Saint of pawnbroking, and his three bags of gold soon became the international symbol of pawnbrokers. Now in its 10th year, Gift Day has helped members of the National Pawnbrokers Association donate financial contributions and thousands of musical instruments to charity organizations supporting underprivileged children, families, and veterans.

NPA members can donate financial support to Operation Homefront and The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation by visiting GiftDay.org

###

The NPA works to provide independent pawnbrokers nationwide with resources and tools to strengthen the pawn industry. NPA members are committed to operating their businesses in such a manner as to enhance and promote the positive and professional image of all pawnbrokers. Members believe in establishing positive and long-lasting relationships with local, state, and federal government officials. The NPA is the industry’s only national association and is located in Southlake, TX.

In the spirit of Gift Day, Bob Moulton of National Pawn in Durham, North Carolina has donated over 3,500 musical instruments to more than 20 schools and a total of $60,000 in cash, since 2011. Brian Moulton who is a member of the NPA Board of Directors and son of National Pawn Founder, Bob Moulton, is also participating. In 2018, he has presented eight public school music programs in North Carolina with at least 100 musical instruments and $2,000 to each school on behalf of National Pawn. The generous donations have received local and regional press coverage and a warm reception from the communities and schools that they benefit.

Bob Moulton has always sought to give back to the communities his stores serve and was specifically inspired to support music education through his own experiences growing up. Enamored by music as a child, Moulton wanted to join his middle school band in Durham, NC, but financial strains made it difficult for his parents to purchase a new instrument. It wasn’t until his mom found an affordable instrument at a yard sale that Moulton was able to live out his musical dreams. Now a successful businessman, Moulton wants to ensure that every child interested in joining a school music program has the ability to pursue those opportunities. “I’ve experienced firsthand the developmental, creative and social benefits of being in the band, and believe it’s so important we give every student the chance to form that same sense of self and team building through music. Our hope is that this will also inspire others to donate gently used instruments to local public schools to expand the overall community impact,” said Moulton.

Expanding his philanthropy from the fine arts to STEM education, Moulton also donated two technology centers to local Boys and Girls Clubs in 2018, including 20 new desktop computers to replace inoperable ones and a total of $4,000 allocated for software upgrades, staff training and future repair costs for the computers.

About National Pawn:

National Pawn is a Triangle-based pawn retailer with 17 locations and 160+ team members across North Carolina. The company celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2017. Over the past three decades, National Pawn has continued to be recognized as an industry leader, thanks to world class customer service, bright modern stores, quality products and tens of thousands of satisfied customers. National Pawn offers many services, including buying, selling and pawn loans. For more information, call (888) 315-4347, email info@nationalpawnshops.com or visit www.nationalpawnshops.com.

]]>Easy As Pawnhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/10/11/easy-as-pawn/
Thu, 11 Oct 2018 18:29:27 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=8005In southwest Louisiana, there’s a chain of pawn stores where decisions are made based on the individual first and the item second. Chad Carter is the owner of Chad’s Pawn Shop and he believes in kindness and showing his customer’s empathy. That philosophy has helped him grow his business from one store in 1994 to six stores in 2018.
Chad Carter, owner of Chad’s Pawn Shop in southwest Louisiana.

Chad’s Pawn Shop takes a number of items in on pawn including firearms, jewelry, tools, electronics, and car stereos. Their primary marketing methods are social media, specifically Facebook, Craigslist, Letgo, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace.

With stores in Lake Charles, Sulphur, Jennings, and Deridder, keeping 42 employees up-to-date and on the same page can be tricky. Training is key and must be uniform throughout the company, Chad emphasizes. His operations supervisor uses meetings, emails, and group texts to keep everyone informed.

Other challenges of a multi-store company are security and personnel. Chad says a state-of-the-art alarm system with at least three keyholders available at all times is a must. Staying in contact with employees to ensure they are happy is vital to keeping key positions filled. When they do need to hire someone new, he looks for a nice smile, an upbeat attitude, and an engaging personality. New hires have been found through in-store advertising, social media, Indeed.com, and Monster.com.

Knowing when to expand your operation can be a tough decision. Chad considers several factors when contemplating a new location: traffic count, population, employment rate, and the average income of the area. The time is right when he has the right management team in place. Before opening a new location, the management team is trained in an existing location first. “It takes a complete management team effort to expand including an inventory auditor, a social media person, an operations supervisor, and an office manager. Each person plays a role in opening a new location,” Chad says.

The second store is the hardest to open, according to Chad, because you expect everyone to work like you do. “Communication is key and the procedures need to be the same at every location,” he shares.

Chad’s future plans include continuing to offer long-term career opportunities while opening new locations and remaining profitable.

Chad Carter is a member of NPA’s Board of Directors. For more information on operating a multi-store business, contact him at chadcarterlpba@yahoo.com.

NPA’s Certified Pawn Professional (CPP) program is now in its fourth year and continues to attract new participants. Course offerings have been administered to over 130 pawnbrokers since its inception in 2015, with 21 of them completing the requirements to receive their CPP designation. Those who can now add “Certified Pawn Professional” to their bio include:

The CPP program covers a wide variety of topics that are essential to a pawnbroker’s business. Receiving the designation elevates the professional standards of the recipient, recognizing him/her as one who is committed to their profession. It can open opportunities for advancement, increase earning potential, improve business acumen, and build confidence in pawn knowledge.

Courses are offered several times a year and include:

Store Operations

Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations

Human Resources

Product Knowledge

Federal Regulations

Security, Risk, and Crisis Management

New candidates to the program must have at least three years of full-time work experience in the pawn industry and must complete the CPP application prior to registering for the first course. The CPP designation is obtained when a candidate completes the required number of courses, currently five out of six. Candidates have three years from the date of their first course to complete all required courses and they must recertify every three years in order to maintain their designation.

NPA membership is not required for participation in the CPP program, but it is highly recommended, and members do receive a significant discount on the course fees. The cost for each course is $199 for members; $499 for non-members.
So, why get certified if you already know how to do your job? Because it separates you from your peers and gives you the personal satisfaction that you have mastered your profession. And that’s a great return on your investment!
For more information, visit NationalPawnbrokers.org/about-the-cpp-program or email Helen Moore at Helen@NationalPawnbrokers.org.

How I got my start in the industry: My family has been running pawn stores for almost 35 years. My grandfather opened the first one in Denham Springs, LA, in 1984; my dad opened a second one four years later in Hammond, LA. Since then, we have opened three others in the surrounding areas. I started working in the business at 18, and after college, I started managing and running the stores.

Chaise Rainey

My top three goals for 2018 are:
Continue to grow our loan balances
Open a new location
Build a positive look for pawn stores in my community

The best advice I have ever received: A goal without a plan is just a dream.

Greatest accomplishments in my pawn career so far: Graduating college and becoming district manager of all locations

Industry certifications held: In the process of getting GIA certified, bachelor’s degree in business

My media mix:
Musical artists – Anything from new rock to country. I also love to listen to different business podcasts.
TV shows – Game of Thrones, Westworld, Parks and Rec, Seinfeld

My role models are: My father and both my grandfathers. My father has shown me how far honesty and trust can get you in life and business. Both my grandfathers had very little growing up but rose to succeed and become successful in life. They showed me that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

NPA members would be surprised to learn that I: Know how to do bench jewelry work and minor gunsmithing.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy: Spending time in the outdoors. I love to fish, hunt, and kayak.

If I wasn’t a pawnbroker, I’d be: A software developer.

]]>Financial Institution Letter, FIL-46-2018, Proposed Retirement of Certain Financial Institution Lettershttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/09/26/financial-institution-letter-fil-46-2018-proposed-retirement-of-certain-financial-institution-letters/
Wed, 26 Sep 2018 18:21:17 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7974Letter to FDIC regarding FIL-46-2018, Proposed Retirement of Certain Financial Institution Letters]]>This Content is for Members Only
]]>Capital Pawn: There’s No Business Like Pawn Businesshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/09/25/capital-pawn-theres-no-business-like-pawn-business/
Tue, 25 Sep 2018 21:38:30 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7971In an industry where many pawn stores are handed down from generation to generation, Beth and Adam Anundi are relative newcomers having opened their pawn store just seven years ago. As co-owners and operators of Capital Pawn & Capital Couture in Salem, OR, their entry into the pawn business is an interesting story.
Beth and Adam Anundi

While Adam is a risk-taker, Beth loves structure and stability. As a college instructor, Beth had stability, but Adam worked in the more uncertain construction and mortgage industries. After several years, they began looking at franchise options and opening their own business. They finally agreed that owning a pawn store would be a business where each of them could use their gifts and talents to help others. After opening their store in 2011 and joining NPA in 2012, they quickly became involved in the association. Beth serves on the Membership Committee and both are regular attendees at Pawn Expo.

National Pawnbroker (NP): What differentiates your store from your competitors?
Beth Anundi (BA): The crew at Capital Pawn loves what they do and it is evident as one walks through the doors that they have fun while helping clients. The team functions like a well-oiled machine talking through developments, opportunities, and planning updates.

NP: In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing pawnbrokers today and how can they be overcome?
BA: One of the greatest challenges today is the growing number of regulations regarding pawn. The best way to keep updated is to have a consultant come in regularly to train employees and confirm that all measures are being met and maintained; additionally, being an involved member of the NPA and state associations will help combat these challenges.

NP: What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the pawn industry?
BA: Jump in with both feet; be positive and never turn a loan away; always have enough cash. Develop relationships with other owners and visit a multitude of stores to determine what will be best for your store in your market.

NP: What are some of the marketing techniques you use to generate traffic into your store?
BA: We believe in using social media to boost our marketing presence and are organically rated by Google. You can check out our sites at: CapPawn.com, Instagram.com/CapitalPawnSouth, Instagram.com/MyCapitalCouture, and Facebook.com/CapPawn. Having an excellent customer experience policy will also help grow your business by word of mouth.

NP: What is your biggest accomplishment or proudest moment since you became a pawnbroker?
BA: Our son, Elliot Anundi, joined the team this year!

NP: How does your company give back to the community?
BA: Capital Pawn supports several programs at three different local high schools which include baseball, football, and dance teams, their booster programs, and the drug-free, alcohol-free all-night party keeping new graduates safe the night of graduation.

Capital Pawn is also passionate about partnering with One Thousand Soles, a non-profit that provides youth with good shoes offering comfort, confidence, participation, and health. I helped found New Growth Ministries which provides food, shelter, and hope for youth in crisis. This year, New Growth is opening the Santiam Teen Center.

NP: What is the funniest thing that has happened to you since you became a pawnbroker?
BA: On Facebook.com/CapPawn, there is an accidental viral video filmed by Capital Pawn’s manager Bryan Fitzgerald and played out by the assistant manager, Rick Noonan. It has had over 11 million views and was featured on LADbible, Unilad, ViralHog. It may have singlehandedly and unwittingly brought back the Circle Game.

NP: Why is Capital Pawn a member of NPA?
BA: Protecting one’s investments is crucial and our business is one of our greatest investments. One simple way to protect our business is to be an active member of the NPA. It is the same reason we belong to our state association and participate locally.

NP: Tell us something about you and Adam that would surprise us.
BA: People may be surprised that Adam has built three of the homes and remodeled one other we have lived in over the last 18 years. He also happens to be the first generation in the Anundi family to not commercial fish. As for me, I love Disneyland and have spent over 30 days in the parks enjoying the magic of Disney in the last twelve months.

]]>Special Alert: Treasury Announces Changes to its “Beneficial Ownership” Rule Effective Immediatelyhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/09/11/special-alert-treasury-announces-changes-to-its-beneficial-ownership-rule-effective-immediately/
Tue, 11 Sep 2018 14:33:11 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7959This Content is for Members Only
]]>FTC Revisions to Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries @ 16 C.F.R. Part 23https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/09/06/ftc-revisions-to-guides-for-the-jewelry-precious-metals-and-pewter-industries-16-c-f-r-part-23/
Thu, 06 Sep 2018 14:40:42 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7963This Content is for Members Only
]]>Compliance Information Regarding Agreements with Service Providers and Vendorshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/08/31/compliance-information-regarding-agreements-with-service-providers-and-vendors/
Fri, 31 Aug 2018 21:26:59 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7952This Content is for Members Only
]]>Authentication for Luxury Handbags Presented by Entrupyhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/08/17/authentication-for-luxury-handbags-presented-by-entrupy/
Fri, 17 Aug 2018 19:11:04 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7927This Content is for Members Only
]]>Federal Compliance Seminarhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/08/17/federal-compliance-seminar/
Fri, 17 Aug 2018 18:44:22 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7922This Content is for Members Only
]]>15 Primary Federal Regulations & Statuteshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/08/17/federal-regulations/
Fri, 17 Aug 2018 09:40:16 +0000http://dev.nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=332This Content is for Members Only
]]>Employee Engagement and Your Company Culture presented by Cathy Gishhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/08/03/turn-vision-into-action-presented-by-cathy-gish/
Fri, 03 Aug 2018 19:17:24 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7906This Content is for Members Only
]]>Future Shock: A Cash Business in a Cashless Societyhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/08/01/future-shock-a-cash-business-in-a-cashless-society/
Thu, 02 Aug 2018 01:36:08 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7876This Content is for Members Only
]]>Retail Jewelry Crime in Context presented by David Sextonhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/08/01/jm-security-program-jewelry-crime-in-context-presented-by-david-sexton/
Thu, 02 Aug 2018 01:31:35 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7872This Content is for Members Only
]]>Social Media Smartphone 101 LABhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/08/01/social-media-smartphone-101-lab/
Wed, 01 Aug 2018 17:36:56 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7944This Content is for Members Only
]]>E-Commerce and Online Sellinghttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/08/01/e-commerce-and-online-selling/
Wed, 01 Aug 2018 17:33:54 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7941This Content is for Members Only
]]>Say it again, Management is not Leadership – Presented by Los Ellishttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/07/26/say-it-again-management-is-not-leadership-presented-by-los-ellis/
Thu, 26 Jul 2018 14:02:19 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7861This Content is for Members Only
]]>The Diamond Industry & the Future of the Second Hand Market – Ezi Rapaporthttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/07/26/the-diamond-industry-the-future-of-the-second-hand-market/
Thu, 26 Jul 2018 13:58:03 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7864This Content is for Members Only
]]>Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection Announces Settlement of TILA Violations by Alabama-Based Provider of “Auto Title Pledge” Loanshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/07/24/bureau-of-consumer-financial-protection-announces-settlement-of-tila-violations-by-alabama-based-provider-of-auto-title-pledge-loans/
Tue, 24 Jul 2018 19:27:32 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7855This Content is for Members Only
]]>Here’s Looking At You, Pawnhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/07/16/heres-looking-at-you-pawn/
Mon, 16 Jul 2018 14:00:48 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7774Shane’s-The Pawn Shop, Inc.: David Schoeneman

You’re never too young to start working in a pawn store. Just ask David Schoeneman, the owner and president of Shane’s-The Pawn Shop, Inc.

David started working at the store, founded in 1955 by his father, Joseph Z. Schoeneman, and his uncle, Joe Schoeneman, at the tender age of 7. He swept floors, cleaned the glass, and polished the shoes that were in pawn. Since 1989, he has been operating the store, located 25 miles south of Chicago, with his wife, Carmencita, a former CPA. A Graduate Gemologist with a focus on loose diamonds, David transitioned the company from a full-line pawn store to a jewelry-only operation in 2007.

National Pawnbroker (NP): What differentiates Shane’s from the other pawn shops in your area?

David Schoeneman (DS): As a jewelry-only shop, we are constantly training our staff in the fine details of diamond grading, authenticating precious metals, and recognizing genuine higher-end watches. We stress superior customer service. The store is clean and well-lit, and the atmosphere brings in pawn customers and buyers from many surrounding communities.

NP: In your opinion, what are the greatest challenges facing pawnbrokers today?

DS: First and foremost, the ever-changing political and legislative instability in our country creates an unstable business environment. The inability of local and national legislators to understand our industry continues to plague us.

While we’ve made a lot of progress, we still have an uphill battle to fight on the image front. I urge all pawnbrokers, members and non-members alike, to keep their stores well-lit, neat, and tidy. It may not seem like much to you, but you do truly only get one chance to make a first impression.

NP: What advice would you give to someone starting out in the pawn industry?

DS: Get to know everyone you can and learn everything you can from their failures and successes.
Know your alderman, mayor, chief of police, state representatives, and state senators as well as building and electrical inspectors. They are all potential customers and allies.

Join your local, state, and national pawnbrokers’ associations. Join other professional associations as well.
Know the details about your insurance policy. Ask your agent questions and assume nothing. What is the rating on your safes? What does your alarm contract cover?

Train yourself and your staff in all the nuances of the product mix you choose to carry, whether diamonds or game systems.
Do promotions within your community, i.e. support a Little League team, July 4th parade, etc.

NP: What are some of the marketing techniques you have used in your business?

DS: We have run cable TV (most expensive and most successful), radio (least successful), billboards (most fun and controversial). We give away private label water and promotional items, Pawn Bucks with each loan and each interest payment, and a finder’s fee/commission up to $100. We speak at Lions Club International, Rotary Club, 4H, church groups, and senior citizen groups. We once ran a promotion that if we had five inches of snow on New Year’s Day, your purchase in December was free.

NP: How do you give back to the community?

DS: We support two local food pantries, provide backpacks with school supplies to local schools, help underwrite the fireworks display on July 4th, and sponsor a Little League team as well as a local art gallery.

NP: What is the funniest thing that has happened to you since you became a pawnbroker?

DS: There are so many quirky events in this business I don’t know where to start. We loved the guy who pulled up in a new Cadillac Escalade with the sticker still in the window who needed to pawn something to get gas for the car. After pawning his ring (but before he left the store), he put a diamond ring on layaway!

NP: Why are you a member of the NPA?

DS: There are so many reasons. I have been lobbying in Washington, DC, four times and learned about the interaction between government and the governed. I have learned more in tips and shared ideas from other pawnbrokers and seminars I have attended than I can express in one article. Over the 25 years I have belonged to my state and national associations, my membership has earned me several hundred thousand dollars.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) made public the results of the 2018 annual elections to select the Board of Directors and Executive Officers for the upcoming year. NPA is excited to announce the re-election of incumbent president Tim Collier to the seat of NPA president for the new term. Mr. Collier will work alongside co-executive officers Kathleen Barbee, Robert Anderson, and Kerry Rainey, who will serve as vice president, treasurer, and secretary, respectively.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) announced the results of the 2018 annual election to select executive officers. The association is pleased to report that Tim Collier will continue in the role of NPA President in the upcoming 2018-2019 term.

Mr. Collier, of Pacer Ltd. in Little Rock, AR, was the 2015 NPA Pawnbroker of the Year, and he served two consecutive terms as the association’s vice president before serving as NPA president in 2017. He has served as acting chair of the NPA Government Relations Committee and has dedicated countless hours supporting the association through involvement in community outreach, charitable giving, and government relations. Additionally, Mr. Collier serves as the President of the Arkansas Pawnbrokers Association.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to continue my work in the role of NPA president, because there’s still much work to be done with our government relations efforts and strategic planning for the future of the association. My focus is to continue to bolster the industry on all fronts so that it will stand the test of time.”

The elections results were announced at Pawn Expo 2018, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry, which was held at The Mirage in Las Vegas.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA), the only national trade association representing independent pawnbrokers, named Rob Anderson of R & R Pawn in Indianapolis, IN as the recipient of the NPA 2018 Pawnbroker of the Year Award.

Rob Anderson is the CFO at R & R Pawn in Indianapolis, IN and holds professional accounting certifications in both the U.S. and Canada. He is a CPA Society award winner for Leadership in Technology. As Treasurer for the National Pawnbrokers Association, Mr. Anderson fills one of the most pivotal and time intensive, yet often most overlooked, Board of Director positions in the association. Mr. Anderson is the most actively involved pawnbroker and executive officer in the NPA’s day-to-day processes and objectives, and the decisions he makes on a daily basis have a lasting impact on the financial health of the association.

Mr. Anderson’s tireless contributions as NPA Treasurer have been extremely beneficial during the recent turbulent economic environment and changes within the industry. He is continually searching to find the best way to guarantee the stability of the NPA’s financial position. He also serves on the Indiana Pawnbroker Association’s Board of Directors and is a contributing author to several NPA publications. Additionally, Mr. Anderson has committed time and resources to assist NPA members who have questions regarding financial structure, accounting, and financial processes.

The Pawnbrokers of the Year Award was presented to Mr. Anderson during the NPA Annual Awards Ceremony on July 10, 2018, at Pawn Expo 2018, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry, hosted at The Mirage Las Vegas.

The NPA Pawnbroker of the Year Award is presented annually to an NPA member who, through his or her performance, has demonstrated exceptional success in their business and local community and has made a significant contribution to the pawn industry during the previous year.

]]>Palak Diam Receives National Pawnbrokers Association Industry Partner of the Year Awardhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/07/10/palak-diam-receives-national-pawnbrokers-association-industry-partner-of-the-year-award/
Tue, 10 Jul 2018 20:06:02 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7805The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) announced today the selection of Palak Diam as the 2018 NPA Industry Partner of the Year. The Los Angeles-based diamond sales firm was recognized at the Annual Awards Luncheon during Pawn Expo 2018, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry, which was held at The Mirage Las Vegas.

Palak Diam has supported the NPA as an industry partner since 2005 and has sponsored countless events. Palak Diam was the 30th Anniversary sponsor for Pawn Expo 2017 and is the Keynote Speaker sponsor for Pawn Expo 2018. This sponsorship will enable the NPA, for the first time, to provide all attendees with the new book, “Never Lose a Customer Again,” which was published in April 2018. Palak Diam also serves on the new NPA Vendor Advisory Committee.

With over eight decades of experience, Palak Diam has grown from a boutique family- run wholesaler into an internationally renowned diamond sales organization that is trusted and respected worldwide. Since becoming an NPA industry partner over 13 years ago, Palak Diam has become a leader among the diamond buying vendors servicing the pawn industry and has assisted the NPA by providing industry expertise, insightful articles for National Pawnbroker and valuable feedback to NPA’s executive officers.

The NPA Industry Partner of the Year Award is presented annually to an NPA Industry Partner who, through their performance and dedication, has shown significant support of the association and its members.

]]>Randi Nell Awarded Young Professional of the Year by National Pawnbrokers Associationhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/07/10/randi-nell-awarded-young-professional-of-the-year-by-national-pawnbrokers-association/
Tue, 10 Jul 2018 20:04:05 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7815Pawnbroker Randi Nell was recognized at the Annual Awards Luncheon during Pawn Expo 2018 in Las Vegas.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) is pleased to announce that Randi Nell of Big Dog Pawn in West Jordan, UT was selected to receive the 2018 NPA Young Professional of the Year Award. Ms. Nell accepted the award during the association’s Annual Awards Ceremony at Pawn Expo 2018 in Las Vegas on July 10, 2018 at The Mirage in Las Vegas.

Randi is a Manager at Big Dog Pawn and studied at Utah State University. Her parents started Big Dog Pawn in West Jordan, UT, when she was 12 years old. As a teenager, she worked in the store part-time. More recently, Ms. Nell has played a pivotal role in establishing, supporting, and building the NPA Young Professionals Committee, on which she’s served for the past three years. She currently serves as the committee’s co-chair, participates in the YP social media groups, and has dedicated her time and resources to reaching out to non-member young professionals to help strengthen and unite the next generation of the pawn industry.

Since joining the NPA, she has regularly attended the annual Legislative Conference in Washington, DC to help provide key lawmakers with a clearer understanding of the positive role pawnbrokers play in their communities. She is fully committed to growing and innovating her family pawn business in West Jordan, UT, and was instrumental in encouraging her parents, Scott and Trish, to join the association.

The NPA Young Professional of the Year Award recognizes young professionals who have demonstrated exceptional success in their businesses and local communities and have made a significant contribution to the pawn industry.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) has selected Max Pawn of Las Vegas, NV as the winner of the 2018 Outstanding Pawn Industry Image Award. Michael Mack, the company’s CEO, accepted the award during the association’s Annual Awards Luncheon at Pawn Expo 2018 in Las Vegas on July 10, 2018.

Max Pawn recently launched an intensive and targeted community relations campaign to promote a positive industry image by highlighting their charity efforts and free events. Using email, social media, local television, and local print media, Max Pawn advertised the store’s free authentication and co-branded events, an initiative to sponsor a
Make-A-Wish Foundation sports team, a Dress For Success Ugly Sweater event and an in-store clothing donation drive to benefit the Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth. Michael is long time member of the NPA and will be speaking at PawnExpo 2018 on Thursday July 12, 2018 at 1:15pm. His session “Luxury Handbags – It’s in the details”
will focus on sourcing, identifying, authenticating and pricing luxury handbags.

The campaign was successful in generating positive media editorial coverage that emphasized the important role pawn stores serve in communities, while helping to dispel outdated or unfounded ideas about pawn stores and point out their value as an alternative to other retail shopping outlets. Max Pawn’s innovative strategies resulted in a 23 percent increase in overall business and a finalist award in the “Best Of Las Vegas” from the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

The NPA Outstanding Pawn Industry Image Award is presented annually to an NPA Pawnbroker or Affiliate member company who creatively generates positive awareness of the pawn industry through a print or digital marketing campaign. This is the second year the NPA is presenting this award.

]]>Seth Gold and Les Gold of American Jewelry and Loan Receive the National Pawnbrokers Association Award for Outstanding Community Relationshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/07/10/seth-gold-and-les-gold-of-american-jewelry-and-loan-receive-the-national-pawnbrokers-association-award-for-outstanding-community-relations/
Tue, 10 Jul 2018 19:52:12 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7807Seth Gold and Les Gold accepted the prestigious award at the National Pawnbrokers Association
Annual Awards Ceremony in Las Vegas.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) is pleased to name American Jewelry and Loan as the 2018 recipient of the NPA Outstanding Community Relations Award. Seth and Les Gold, of TruTV’s Hardcore Pawn, accepted the award at the Annual Awards Luncheon on July 10, 2018. The event was held at The Mirage in Las Vegas during Pawn Expo 2018, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry.

Celebrating 40 years of business in metro Detroit, American Jewelry and Loan has a long history of community involvement, which employs a three-tier strategy of business leadership, financial literacy, and charitable giving. Their Entrepreneurship Master Class provides low-cost training and mentoring to approximately 50 aspiring entrepreneurs. As volunteer mentors for Junior Achievement, the Golds give freely of their time to attend high school “Shark-Tank Style” pitches, offering business wisdom and insights as well as seed funds from “The Gold Bank.” As part of their commitment to workforce diversity, American Jewelry and Loan provides meaningful employment to adults on the autism spectrum.

The Golds recognize that financial literacy is an important priority for the Detroit region and have worked to help educate their customers and others about pawnbroking. Their “Financial Literacy for Alternative Lending Customers” course, is now in its second year, and represents a partnership with three national non-profit organizations and is the only one of its kind.

The Gold family is committed to supporting their community. Les frequently serves as a celebrity auctioneer and has raised $125,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters and almost $300,000 for Winning Futures, a youth mentoring program. Seth served as Honorary Chair of the Wigs 4 Kids Gala. In addition to welcoming summer interns from The Jalen Rose Academy, American Jewelry and Loan contributed $10,000 towards the scholarship fund of this charter high school, which serves the children who live in the same neighborhood as their Detroit store. To celebrate the company’s 40th anniversary, they gave a $10,000 gift to Junior Achievement of Southeastern to establish ‘The Gold Bank’ which will fund the entrepreneurial endeavors of Detroit’s youth for generations to come.

The Outstanding Community Relations Award was created in 2015 and is presented to an NPA Pawnbroker or Affiliate member company who advances the standard and quality of life in their community through public service or volunteerism.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) announced today the recipients of the Certified Pawn Professional designation, “CPP,” a recognized mark of distinction within the pawn industry. The CPP program, created in 2015, is designed for experienced pawnbrokers to further their professional education and earn the designation “CPP.” Designees were recognized at the NPA Annual Membership Meeting during Pawn Expo 2018.

The following pawnbrokers have achieved the designee status of Certified Pawn Professional (CPP):

The CPP designation recognizes pawnbrokers who are committed to professional development and the attainment of the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their jobs at the highest level of quality and is also an avenue for employers to recognize and promote pawn professionals. The program builds on the NPA’s commitment to provide resources and tools to strengthen the pawn industry.

CPP designees have had at least three years of professional pawnbroking experience and have been certified in a series of CPP learning programs, such as Store Operations; Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations; Human Resources; Product Knowledge; Federal Regulations; and Security, Risk, and Crisis Management. The program was created by the NPA in partnership with pawnbroker members who are experts in their field.

]]>NPA 2018 Membership Anniversarieshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/07/09/npa-2018-membership-anniversaries/
Mon, 09 Jul 2018 14:00:37 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7772The NPA would like to recognize the following members who have reached milestone anniversaries with their NPA membership. They have supported the association and its mission for the past 30, 25, 20, and 10 years. We thank you for your contributions to the NPA and to the pawn industry.

]]>Recent Bankruptcy Decision Affecting Pawns in California and Other Jurisdictions Requiring Post-Default Noticehttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/07/05/recent-bankruptcy-decision-affecting-pawns-in-california-and-other-jurisdictions-requiring-post-default-notice/
Thu, 05 Jul 2018 17:41:01 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7797This Content is for Members Only
]]>Bill Dawson: Carolina In My Mindhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/07/02/bill-dawson-carolina-in-my-mind/
Mon, 02 Jul 2018 14:00:06 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7768Over half of all NPA pawnbroker members are part of a multi-store operation. To get a closer look into all the decisions that are made on how, when, or if you should expand your pawn business, we are featuring a series of articles on pawnbrokers who own more than one store.

Bill Dawson wasn’t planning a career in the pawn business. In fact, he already had a job as operations manager for EF Hutton. He was recruited by a friend to help out in a pawn store on the which led to filling in over the holidays which led to learning the business and growing the company. Eventually, he became partners with his friend, Scott, and Scott’s sister, Cathy, to form LDPM, the parent company of Picasso Pawn.

Together, Bill, Scott, and Cathy operate 10 stores in Raleigh, Durham, and Wilmington, NC, with the help of 70 employees. Jewelry, electronics, firearms, tools, and musical instruments are the top five items pawned at their locations.

Bill is the CEO/President of LDPM and his leadership has helped shape the infrastructure of the company. He’s been in the pawn industry for over 25 years, and in that time, he’s watched the industry undergo tremendous change. “Pawn stores should be beacons in their respective communities, giving people greater access to immediate cash,” he says. He’s worked tirelessly to legitimize the industry and to remove the negative stereotype.

One of the questions many pawnbrokers ask is how to know when and where to open a new store. While he doesn’t have a formula for when, he does have an opinion on where. According to Bill, it’s that age-old adage: location, location, location. “You must have high traffic, high visibility, and close proximity to customers that fit your demographic. To make expansion less of a challenge, prepare your team by involving them in the process well in advance so they can be prepared for their part.”

A graduate of East Carolina University, Bill has a degree in marketing and he’s used that in a variety of ways to promote the business. LDPM’s promotional avenues include television, print media, radio, and sports venue promotions. He is currently focusing on social media, specifically Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. He says the biggest bang for the buck is “location and branding. By that, I mean we make great effort to keep our store fronts, signage, and image inviting. We ask new customers how they found us and, by far, the biggest response is they saw us when driving by.”
One of the biggest obstacles in owning a multi-store operation is keeping up with staffing. “The optimal candidate can be successful by learning the techniques through our training.” Bill shares. “We are always looking for better ways to attract good employees and encourage our managers to actively seek out potential candidates wherever they go. It seems better to go out and find them rather than waiting for them to come to us.” The company also gives incentives to current employees when they recommend candidates.

Bill’s best advice for someone thinking about expanding: Make sure you have reserves. “When I say reserves, I mean two things: money and resources. If you think it’s going to cost $xx, plan on it costing more.” As for resources, plan extra time, attention, personnel, and merchandise.

The long-term goal for LDPM is to maximize the stakeholder’s value, including both owners and employees. With Bill’s leadership, we expect he’ll be doing just that.

Bill Dawson is a member of NPA’s Board of Directors. For more information on operating a multi-store business, contact him at Bill@LDPM.com.

Ever since Christian T. moved to the neighborhood, he had driven past the San Diego pawn shop countless times. He had even visited. However, he never thought of asking about the unique object he had pawned years ago. Since he was not able to retrieve it at the time, he figured it was long gone.

The item was a 1953 “Silent” Smith Corona typewriter, a gift from an esteemed teacher who, according to Christian, gave it to him “as a token of confidence” right at the beginning of a tumultuous time in his life. Christian, who told part of his story in a Yelp review, relocated to San Diego and brought the typewriter with him.

As it turned out, Christian’s troubles permeated his financial life and stretched out for years. So, in 2014, he decided to pawn the typewriter at CashCo Pawn, a well-known pawnshop in San Diego.

A 1958 Smith Corona Silent-Super typewriter. Photo by P. Musgrave*

But by April of 2018, many things had changed. The rough patch seemed to be “over and the smoke began to clear.” Something stirred inside him. He remembered the typewriter and how it signified someone’s belief that he would pull through whatever punches life would throw. He decided to inquire about the typewriter even though he knew the chances of finding it were slim. “All of CashCo’s staff and even the inventory system had turned over. There was no record of the transaction and no way to search, let alone find something, from so [many years] far back.”

To further complicate matters, the store was going through a major spring cleaning.
CashCo is well-known for giving back to the community. Every year, the pawn shop gives away thousands of dollars in prizes to their customers and is well-known for organizing epic holiday parties for the entire neighborhood. With the warehouse’s cleanup underway, hundreds of expired and unsold items were donated to local charities. It seemed unlikely that Christian’s typewriter would turn up.

In a final effort, Christian decided to tell Ediz Benaroya, the general manager, his story. Though Ediz listened and assured him they would make the best effort to find his typewriter, Christian was skeptical. “I was doubtful of this pawnbroker’s concern for what matters in the big picture, or even just to me.”

After an initial search of the warehouse, nothing was found. Ediz promised that the staff would continue to look. By then, Christian had given up hope.

But the week after that, something unexpected happened. Ediz called, and Christian had to “overcome a minor emotional shock” as he heard the news. The item had been found. CashCo’s staff had continued to search “on the blind faith that they could simply help me.” Christian wondered how much he’d have to pay in interest, storage, or fees after so many years. However, “They practically gifted the machine back because, by now, the sentiment was theirs too.”

As Christian said in his glowing review of CashCo “the pawn game can be rough.” However, pawnshops such as CashCo Pawn San Diego provide an invaluable service to people in need of immediate cash. Pawn loans require no credit checks or complex background inquiries. And like CashCo, they are places where professional conduct, good intentions, and generosity abound.

“I humbly submit that my gratitude is worth the time it will take us to share. The pawn game can be rough. So I was doubtful of this broker’s concern for what matters in the big picture, or even just to me. Such was the case in 2014 when I gave up a pair of irreplaceable items. One of these manual typewriters was of immense personal value. A highly-esteemed teacher gave it to me as a token of confidence, at the beginning of what turned out to be a decade of difficulty. When it was over and the smoke began to clear a few months ago, I popped into this store where I’d given up my machine. All of their staff and even the inventory system had turned over. There was no record of the transaction and no way to search, let alone find something from that far back. In a last-ditch effort, I told Ediz (the general manager) my story in more detail than the typical internet reader wants to read or our present purpose requires. Suffice it here to say, it’s a deeply meaningful story and Ediz listened. He then said he wanted to help me, even seemed genuine, and did a perfunctory search of the upper warehouse. Naturally, nothing was found. Of course, he said the staff would continue to look. I then proceeded to give up once and for all. I had tried. But then, within a week, Ediz actually did call. I had to overcome minor shock before I could just process the emotional news. The staff really had continuously searched on the blind faith that they could simply help me. They practically gifted the machines back because, by now, the sentiment was theirs too. My buy back was a formality. It didn’t cover the labor just described, the interest, storage… Considering inflation, not one of these considerations, not a fraction of their costs were covered. They just did this out of compassion.”

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) Announces the Results of the Annual Trend Survey and Compares Industry Trends Over Five Years

Southlake, TX – The NPA announced today the results of the NPA 2017 Trend Survey. The survey, which was conducted in early 2018, focuses on industry trends as reported by pawnbroker members of the NPA for the 2017 calendar year. The NPA has compiled survey results since 2013 to explore long range trends and their implications.

One notable result indicated that, in 2017, 47 percent of pawnbrokers cited an increase in retail sales. This is a continuing trend over the last five years, as retail sales have steadily increased for most pawnbrokers since 2013. “This growth is attributed to consumer confidence, advancements in retail strategy, and the continued mainstreaming of pawn industry in American culture,” said Tim Collier, pawnbroker and NPA President.

While retail growth is on the upswing, pawnbrokers are cautious of the future due to the success and rapid proliferation of competing online retail operations, such as Amazon, Google Ads, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay. More than a quarter of pawnbrokers surveyed did not operate a website in 2017, but 84 percent use Facebook. “The industry will need to continue to diversify its sales operations by embracing e-commerce, social media, and online promotion to compete,” noted Mr. Collier.

While pawn stores show growth in their retail sales, pawn loans are reported to be on the decline. Non-recourse pawn loans are the core of a pawnbroker’s business. More than 45 percent of NPA members surveyed reported a decrease in loans being made to customers. Mr. Collier added, “Collateral loans are a primary service that pawnbrokers offer to customers who don’t have access to traditional banking services and credit. The slow decline of these types of non-recourse short term, small dollar loans tells a larger story of increased competition by online lenders, big-banks, and the over-regulation of the pawn industry.”This downward shift has steadily continued over the last five years. However, when surveyed year over year, pawnbrokers remain optimistic, as most predict that all business will continue to grow.

The NPA works to provide independent pawnbrokers nationwide with resources and tools to strengthen the pawn industry. NPA members are committed to operating their businesses in such a manner as to enhance and promote the positive and professional image of all pawnbrokers. Members believe in establishing positive and long-lasting relationships with local, state, and federal government officials. The NPA is the industry’s only national association and is located in Southlake, TX.

]]>Pawnbrokers Alert Capitol Hill Lawmakers of the Effects of De-Risking on Consumershttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/04/20/pawnbrokers-alert-capitol-hill-lawmakers-of-the-effects-of-de-risking-on-consumers/
Sat, 21 Apr 2018 01:12:34 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7706National Pawnbrokers Association members take to the Hill in Washington, DC, to meet with members of U.S. Congress and their staffs.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA), the only national trade association representing independent pawnbrokers, is holding its annual Legislative Conference in Washington, DC, on April 24, 2018. This year, pawnbrokers will attend meetings with legislators on Capitol Hill to draw attention to bank de-risking practices, which have terminated bank accounts for pawnbrokers across the U.S.

The NPA reports that U.S. banks are terminating financial services to pawnbroking businesses, such as business credit cards, savings, and checking accounts in a practice known as “de-risking.” Tim Collier, pawnbroker and president of the National Pawnbrokers Association states, “De-risking unfairly impacts pawn businesses that service non-recourse collateral loans to approximately 30 million Americans annually who rely on pawn loans to make ends meet when they can’t access money elsewhere.” De-risking is largely caused by overzealous banking regulations and ultimately hurts the most vulnerable in our community.

The NPA Legislative Conference is designed to build and reinforce relationships between pawnbrokers, their Members of Congress, and staff. The conference helps create a greater understanding by Congress of the important role the pawn industry plays in serving the financial needs of Americans.

The NPA represents independently-owned brick and mortar pawn stores which provide access to non-recourse short term, small dollar loans to consumers with limited access to traditional forms of credit. Pawnbrokers are safety-net lenders that provide consumer loans based upon personal property. Pawnbrokers and pawn transactions are covered by 15 federal statutes and regulations, including the consumer protection and anti-money laundering laws that apply to other credit providers designated as financial institutions. These federal, state, and local laws govern all aspects of pawn transactions, including allowable charges, duration, and redemption of collateral, as well as detailed record-keeping requirements.

Some years ago, I was talking with a friend of mine, Jay Kantor from Jay Pays. I was showing him some stones that I had for sale. Written on the corner of one of the diamond papers was “MRBC 1.27ct”. As Jay looked at the paper, half to me and half to himself, he said, “Oh, a Marquise…” Upon opening the paper, he looked perplexed. It was a round diamond. He looked at the paper and then back at me and asked if I had the wrong stone in the paper. I said, “No it’s a Modern Round Brilliant Cut, hence the ‘MRBC’.” It was something Jay had never heard as a term used for a round stone and he found it kind of odd. We joked about it for a few minutes and moved on with our business. Over the years Jay has just accepted my odd diamond papers without comment.

Fast forward to 2017. My mentor, who introduced me to the jewelry and pawn industry, passed away unexpectedly this past February. His name was James Martin (Uncle Jimmy to me) and was from Sarasota, FL, formerly of Crown Point, IN. He was the person who introduced me to the jewelry business when I was just a 21-year-old kid working in the steel mills in Gary, IN. He would let me pick through his scrap gold and find chains and bracelets that I could polish and resell to guys I worked with in the mill.

The shop in Crown Point, IN was called “The Crowntique”. I would spend hours hanging out looking and learning about the magnificent antique jewelry they bought there. Jimmy and my Aunt Shirl ran the shop with finesse and class. It was no more than 400 square feet of show room with a small bench area in back, but it always felt huge because there was so much to look at. Jimmy, who was a Graduate Gemologist, eventually started to show me how to grade diamonds and suggested that I attain some formal training. I enrolled in the GIA home study course and learned about diamonds and colored stones. At the time, I had no idea how much that little shop would change my life.

Uncle Jimmy and Aunt Shirl, along with their daughter Shaun, moved to Sarasota in 1987. Shortly after that, they opened a little pawn shop in the First Florida Bank building in downtown Sarasota called, of course, The Crowntique. It was a small office on the upper floor of the bank building with no display cases, just a beautiful office where they wrote pawn loans by appointment only. They did mostly high-end loans and worked primarily on referrals. This is where I learned about the pawn business. I would vacation in Florida a few times a year and would spend days hanging out in their office, gathering every bit of knowledge I could. I continued to buy from their scrap gold for resale in the steel mill, and now armed with my GIA education, I moved into diamonds.

They ran the pawn shop for just over ten years and then decided to “retire” to the life of vest pocket diamond dealers. Despite my aunt battling brain cancer, and eventually having to be moved to assisted living, they ran the diamond business up until Jimmy’s death in February. By that time, I had been out of the steel mills for 18 years and had owned my own pawn shop for over 15 years.
This brings me back to the “MRBC” on the diamond paper that Jay found so odd. My cousin, Shaun, was in charge of handling her father’s estate which included the diamond business. I volunteered to help her with settling any memo goods that were still out and unaccounted for. She gave me his memo books, and hand written on the first page, the very first diamond was a MRBC 1.50ct GIA.

When I saw that, I couldn’t help but think about my encounter with Jay years before. I always knew that my uncle was teaching me, but never realized how much his influence would be felt in my business almost 30 years later. While I was in my 20s, he taught me to use “MRBC” on diamond papers. It was most useful in the late 80s and early 90s, when we were buying a lot of European cut stones; this way we knew it wasn’t a European cut without having to open the diamond paper. He would always call the stone by its “full name.” It always sounded special when he showed a customer a “Modern Round Brilliant Cut Diamond.” I looked up to Jimmy and saw his success, so why would I change what worked? Looking back now, “MRBC” is a silly thing to do considering we would always mark European cut diamonds with an E on the paper. That’s just the way Jimmy did things.

I look around my shop today and realize that a lot of who I am, and what my shop is today, is because of Jimmy’s influence. Another example of this is a laminated card hanging on the employee side of the pawn windows. The card has the millimeter spread of what a diamond should be: 5.2mm =.50ct, 6.5mm= 1.00ct etc. Measurements range from 1.0mm to 11.2mm. When other pawnbrokers and dealers have asked me for a copy, I have always given them one. Jimmy gave me that card in the early 90s, and to know that it is still being used by my staff and the staff of other pawn shops, would make him proud.

I hope you take a moment to reflect on those who have put you on the path to success and independence in the pawn business. Thank them if they are still around. If it hadn’t been for my aunt and uncle’s little shop in northwest Indiana, my life would have been completely different. They will forever be “MRBC” to me.

Thanks, Uncle Jimmy!

James Jarleth Martin (1940-2017)

]]>A Little Glitter Never Hurthttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/04/02/a-little-glitter-never-hurt/
Mon, 02 Apr 2018 13:00:31 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7660Oregon is home to a number of recognizable names: Oregon Ducks, Oregon State Beavers, Mount Hood, Pendleton, and a five-store pawn operation called All That Glitters Jewelry and Loans. This family-owned business opened its first store in Portland in 1988. Since that time, they have added four more stores in Tigard, Milwaukie, Salem, and Albany, all operated with a staff of 40. In 1993, Steve Souza’s family needed help running their two stores in Portland. Steve had just completed four years of service in the Air Force, so he offered his services to the family business. He is now the company’s general manager.

When asked how to know when it’s time to open a new location and where that location should be, Steve says, “We have opened up additional locations based upon availability of the buildings and the need for a pawn shop in the area. When deciding where to open up additional locations, we consider the physical location, cross traffic, accessibility, competition, and building size.”

Keeping operations running smoothly across five locations and 40 employees takes a lot of coordination. The company’s primary obstacles are maintaining consistent procedures and ensuring constant and clear communication between the store managers. Steve calls each store manager daily Monday through Friday (and sometimes weekends) to discuss any issues they may be experiencing. He also makes a weekly face-to-face visit at each store. The company holds management meetings to inform employees about operating procedures, policies, regulation changes, sales events, and to discuss any problems.

All That Glitters uses a number of different marketing avenues to promote their pawn store business. They currently advertise on television (running commercials on local stations), radio, and Facebook. “All of our locations have a Facebook page and use this avenue to advertise new and special merchandise, offer collateral loans, and inform our customers of our special events. We send out emails informing customers of our VIP sales events. We also promote All That Glitters through reviews with Google since many potential customers use this avenue when searching for alternative loans,” he says.

As with many companies, and pawn stores in particular, finding good employees can be a long and arduous process. When reviewing applicants, Steve prefers longevity. “We look for candidates who have previous employment of two or more years with one employer. This is a good indication they will be successful with our company. It’s very time consuming and expensive to train employees. Currently, 20 percent of our employees have been employed with All That Glitters for 10 years or more. 70 percent of our employees have been with us for at least two years. We also look for candidates who are friendly and have good customer service skills.”

The company gives back to the local community in a rather unique way. They provide free produce in the summer and free Christmas trees in December. The company owners have a nearby farm where they grow corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, and other produce. Once a week, in August and September, they bring in the produce and offer it free of charge to the community. They do the same with Christmas trees during the holidays. They also donate to the Elks, local veterans, schools, and various educational organizations.

Being a member of NPA has allowed Steve to “network with other pawnbrokers to identify issues within the industry, such as trends with loans, sales, hiring practices, and employee compensation.” He’s also able to get their opinions on topics such as, counterfeit items, fake gold, policies, regulations, suppliers, and references.

While it’s impossible to forecast what the future will hold for the pawn industry with the many changes in government regulations, All That Glitters’ goal is to continue to provide the community with their fair and friendly services.

]]>Treasury’s New “Beneficial Ownership” Rule Should Not Affect Pawnbrokers’ Existing Bank Accountshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/03/29/treasurys-new-beneficial-ownership-rule-should-not-affect-pawnbrokers-existing-bank-accounts/
Thu, 29 Mar 2018 17:20:08 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7668This Content is for Members Only
]]>SESCO Webinar: Management’s Role in Recognizing & Preventing Sexual Harassment and Discrimination in the Workplacehttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/03/28/sesco-webinar-managements-role-in-recognizing-preventing-sexual-harassment-and-discrimination-in-the-workplace/
Wed, 28 Mar 2018 16:15:33 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7671This Content is for Members Only
]]>From Your Pocket to Theirs: Future Business Leaders Scholarshipshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/03/26/from-your-pocket-to-theirs-future-business-leaders-scholarships/
Mon, 26 Mar 2018 13:57:47 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7658Thank you so much for your continuing support of my educational goals through your scholarship program. I had another successful semester at Ashland [University] and made the Dean’s List due in part to your support.” – Julia Newberry, Mansfield, OH

If you, or one of your customers, know a college student in need of tuition help, now is the time for them to apply for a Future Business Leader (FBL) scholarship from NPA.

According to CollegeBoard.org, approximately two-thirds of all students require some amount of financial help to meet the cost of their higher education. With dramatic increases in tuition fees and the soaring cost of textbooks, the demand is now greater than ever.

The FBL program was started in 2003 to give college aid to the children of pawnbrokers or their customers. Since inception, the program has awarded over $140,000 in scholarships.

To apply for the scholarship, download the application and guidelines at NationalPawnbrokers.org/community-outreach. Submit the completed form along with the other requirements by Friday, April 20, 2018, to be considered. Scholarship recipients are chosen based on academic performance, community leadership, and written essay submissions.

If you don’t know a student, but would like to donate to the fund, send your tax-deductible contribution to NPA, PO Box 508, Keller, TX 76244.

]]>Fieldstone Jewelry and Pawn: Georgia On My Mindhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/03/19/fieldstone-jewelry-and-pawn-georgia-on-my-mind/
Mon, 19 Mar 2018 13:47:38 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=765630 years ago, in 1987, John Little started a business called Fieldstone Jewelry and Pawn in Conyers, GA, a small town east of Atlanta. John’s daughter, Lisa Little, began working with him in the store after college. At the time, she had no idea what a pawn store was. After John’s death in 2013, she became the CEO and “do whatever didn’t get done” gal. She recently earned her Certified Pawn Professional (CPP) designation and became the program’s first female recipient.

National Pawnbroker (NP): How do you stay ahead of the competition in your area?

LL: We try to call customers by name, thank them for their business, and build long-term relationships. We also try always to be compassionate, fair, and kind. I have given out many hugs on the other side of the counter to people who have really needed them.

NP: In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing pawnbrokers today and how can they overcome them?

LL: Government regulations – there are so many! We must educate our lawmakers. Many have erroneous preconceived notions about our role in the community.

The huge decline in mom-and-pop brick and mortar stores is also a problem. The new generation is learning to buy and pawn online first. That’s a problem when we’re carrying the overhead of brick and mortar stores. We have to develop relationships with our customers that add value and keep them coming in.

NP: Do you feel being a woman has made it easier or harder for you to do business as a pawnbroker?

LL: I think being a woman is a double-edged sword in the pawn business. For many years, the image of the pawnbroker seemed to be a fat sweaty cigar-smoking bald guy (no offense to fat sweaty cigar-smoking bald guys.) I think coming into a pawn shop and meeting a woman was a nice change from what customers were expecting. In the beginning, I had to get to know my business and the typically-male products, such as tools and firearms, better than the men to be taken seriously by male clients. I do think being a woman sometimes makes younger clients and women more comfortable – especially first-timers.

NP: What advice would you give to someone just starting out in the pawn industry?

LL:

• You aren’t going to like some of the people who come in to do business with you. Be kind anyway.
• Grow your loan base.
• Get a good education in jewelry, guns, tools, and musical instruments.
• Get to know your customers and their families by name.
• Know you are going to make mistakes. Learn from them.
• Always be alert. People may target you because of what you have in your stores (guns, gold, coins, jewelry, and cash).
• Sometimes help people just because you should, not because it’s profitable.
• Know that this industry ruins you from wanting to do anything else. Once you are a pawnbroker, it’s hard to change jobs because the business is so interesting.

NP: You are a participant in the Certified Pawn Professional (CPP) program. How has the program helped you as a pawnbroker?

LL: I have made changes in marketing, security, and operations because of insights gained in these courses. Although I have been a pawnbroker for many years, I found I benefited from hearing ideas from other pawnbrokers and have gained something important from every class.

NP: What is the funniest thing that has happened to you since you became a pawnbroker?

LL: There have been many, but let’s be real – it’s the people. There’s the girl who walked around my store with a racoon tail attached to her back side. There’s the guy and his dad who had matching piercings all over their faces (and I mean ALL OVER their faces.) There’s the girl who wanted me to solder her belly chain onto her belly ring permanently. There’s the lady who had painstakingly crocheted bright blue yarn into her hair extensions. And there’s the rose and cigarette lady who always pulled her wet, sweaty money out of the front of her shirt. They’re all funny, and I love them all.

NP: How does your company give back to the community?

LL: We like to give locally as much as possible. Over the years, we have supported many different organizations in our area, particularly those that help children, battered spouses, the military, and law enforcement.

NP: Why are you a member of NPA?

LL: We are in danger of being regulated out of business. We must have an organization like NPA to have a voice. I enjoy building relationships with other pawnbrokers from all parts of the globe. The NPA Member Forum has been a very helpful tool.

The House Financial Services Committee hearing on February 15, 2018, titled “Examining De-risking and its Effect on Access to Financial Services,” was a positive step forward for the NPA and pawnbrokers. The hearing covered the issue of discontinuance and the related impact to small business. The pawn industry received noteworthy bipartisan attention. Please review the pertinent links and video of the hearing below.

VIDEO: “Examining De-risking and its Effect on Access to Financial Services” Hearing

]]>Brady Center – Lawsuitshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/02/17/brady-center-lawsuits/
Sat, 17 Feb 2018 18:46:26 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7622This Content is for Members Only
]]>Bitcoin or Other Virtual Currencies: Information about Using Virtual Currencies to Take or Make Payments for Goods or Serviceshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/02/14/bitcoin-or-other-virtual-currencies-information-about-using-virtual-currencies-to-take-or-make-payments-for-goods-or-services/
Wed, 14 Feb 2018 20:44:19 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7555This Content is for Members Only
]]>Part 2 of Bitcoin or Other Virtual Currencies: Information about Accepting Virtual Currencies as Collateral for Pawn Transactionshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/02/14/part-2-of-bitcoin-or-other-virtual-currencies-information-about-accepting-virtual-currencies-as-collateral-for-pawn-transactions/
Wed, 14 Feb 2018 20:35:57 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7550This Content is for Members Only
]]>Government Relations Committee Information Update on Compliance with the Department of Defense Military Lending Act Regulation January 2018https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/02/02/government-relations-committee-information-update-on-compliance-with-the-department-of-defense-military-lending-act-regulation-january-2018/
Fri, 02 Feb 2018 18:28:41 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7464This Content is for Members Only
]]>Pawn Industry Talking Pointshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2018/01/31/pawn-industry-talking-points/
Wed, 31 Jan 2018 10:04:23 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=3650This Content is for Members Only
]]>Pawnbrokers Collect Musical Instruments and Donations for Flood and Natural Disaster Victimshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2017/11/27/pawnbrokers-collect-musical-instruments-and-donations-for-flood-and-natural-disaster-victims/
Mon, 27 Nov 2017 20:32:35 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7368School Music Programs That Have Suffered from Tornadoes, Floods, Hurricanes and Fires Will Receive Musical Instruments from Pawnbrokers with the help of The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and Music Rising

On December 6, the National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) will celebrate the ninth year of its annual musical instrument donation program, Gift Day. Each year during the holiday season, NPA members come together to furnish needy and underfunded school band programs with a fresh supply of new, gently-used, and refurbished musical instruments.

This year, NPA members are asked to donate instruments to The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and Music Rising. In 2005, Music Rising was launched to rescue the musical culture of the Central Gulf region of the U.S. from the destruction caused by the catastrophic hurricanes Katrina and Rita, by replacing the musical instruments lost or destroyed in the deluge. Co-founded by U2’s the Edge and legendary producer Bob Ezrin, the organization continues to aid schools affected by natural disasters nationwide.

In the past year alone, record flooding from hurricanes and destructive fires have left an unprecedented number of children without the means to participate in music education. NPA is calling on its generous members to donate new and gently-used musical instruments to help rebuild school band programs affected by the devastation.

NPA members can also donate financial support to The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and Music Rising. For more information visit GiftDay.org

More About the National Pawnbrokers Musical Instrument Gift Day

December 6 is also National Pawnbrokers Day, which coincides with St. Nicholas Day. Saint Nicholas of Myra is famed for his generosity to the poor and for his penchant for secretly leaving gifts for people in need. St. Nicholas, recognized in America as Santa Claus, was canonized as the Patron Saint of pawnbroking, and his three bags of gold soon became the international symbol of pawnbrokers.

Now in its ninth year, Gift Day has helped members of the National Pawnbrokers Association donate thousands of musical instruments to charity organizations supporting underprivileged children, families, and veterans.

Arielle Baker received a scholarship from the Future Business Leaders scholarship program in 2012 when she was sponsored by West Side Pawn in Knoxville, TN. Her childhood dream was to be a professional dancer. But after years of dancing, she had to have knee surgery followed by months of therapy. She then re-focused that dream and set out on a new path to become a physical therapist.

With an undergraduate degree in chemistry, Arielle attended physical therapy school at West Virginia University to accomplish her new dreams. After three years of hard work and determination, she earned the degree of Doctor of Physical Therapy.

“It has been a great honor to realize the potential impact I can make in people’s lives while pursuing a career in which I am very passionate. I would not have been able to develop this passion and make this impact without the assistance of the NPA. They have allowed me to fearlessly strive for greatness in my academic career,” shares Arielle.

Thanks to the NPA scholarship, Arielle was able to set her goals even higher than she ever anticipated. Prior to graduation from physical therapy school, she applied and was selected for a Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency at Virginia Commonwealth University. This residency will allow her to continue developing her skills as a physical therapist in treating patients with neurologic disorders, such as spinal cord injury, brain injury, and stroke. She says, “Throughout my long journey to become the physical therapist that I am today, I thank the NPA for supporting my education and allowing me to shoot for the stars.”

For more information on the FBL scholarship program, visit NationalPawnbrokers.org and click on the Community Relations tab.

I’m not telling you anything you do not already know when I make the statement, “Pawnbroking in America has an image problem.” Many of the negatives we in the industry suffer are misplaced stereotypes, bred and fed by the entertainment industry and the news media. However, some of the negatives are based on a measure of truth. We are limited in our ability to engage the media myths, but do have considerable power in overcoming the negatives based on our own actions.

The level of power or control is up to us as individual pawnbrokers. We possess the ability to destroy a number of negatives that bring harm to our image: individually and collectively as an industry. If we possess the attitude and desire to improve our stores, based on sound business principles and with a good business plan, we can and will eventually overcome those terrible negatives.

Have you developed a philosophy about the image and appearance of our business? Are tools, jewelry, or guns your most important inventory item? Do you engage in continuing education to better yourself and your pawnshop? Follow me as I consider these and other areas of pawnbroking.

I never refer to my store by the single word “shop”. I feel it lowers the image of a retail business (exceptions includes stores like dress shop and coffee shop). How does “jewelry shop” sound? Before you pounce on me, I do use the word pawnshop. I just don’t say, “Hey, drop in to my SHOP, if you’re in the neighborhood.” I’d rather say, “My STORE is centrally located, and if you’re in the area, please stop in.”

I’m a pawnbroker engaged in pawnbroking in a pawnshop. I’m not a hockbroker engaged in hockbroking in a hockshop. There are a number of derogatory synonyms for pawn and pawnbroking and I choose not to let them become a part of my vocabulary. Nor do I permit my employees to use such terms.

I am sure most of you would agree that many pawnbrokers should work harder to clean up their stores. We live in a very competitive era and a junk-filled pawnshop is not conducive to decent profits and the presentation of a professional image. I’ve visited hundreds of pawnshops throughout North America and am disappointed to say that more than a few of them do not bring to mind terms like professional, clean, tidy, comfortable, or appealing. Evaluate your product mix, market, and methods of display.

Too many pawnbrokers don’t know how (or just will not take the time) to clean their stores and their merchandise. Dust abounds in the great majority of the pawnshops I have visited. If you turn merchandise, thereby turning dollars, dust won’t have time to collect.

Pawnbrokers are notorious for paying very little for used merchandise, then pricing those goods with new retail prices. This is neither helpful in building your business nor a healthy competitive marketing strategy.

Many pawnbrokers feel the need, or have a desire, to lower themselves to a level equal to, or below, the appearance level of their customers. Keep this in mind. The book “Dress for Success” was a bestseller. “Dress for Mediocrity” was a flop.

Some pawnbrokers condone foul language in their stores and too often participate in this behavior themselves in front of children and other customers. You shouldn’t permit this behavior in your business.

Many pawnbrokers fail to bathe and groom themselves properly and regularly. How about a shave? Haircut? Shampoo anyone? My mother has always said soap is “cheap”, and taking time to tidy up doesn’t cost money.

Some pawnbrokers fail to keep regular business hours. Just plain dumb.

Many pawnbrokers fail to understand the nature of the fiduciary relationship they have with their customers. Therefore, they fail to adequately insure and protect the property of others. Fiduciary is synonymous with confidence, faith, and trust. Do your actions reflect an appropriate level of responsibility in your role as one who must honor the faith, trust, and confidence your customers have reposed in you?

I’ve been in pawnshops without alarm systems. I know of one that operated (until it went out of business) without a safe. They used a standard filing cabinet with no lock. I know of another that has operated for 20 years using only a bankers (cardboard) box to store pledged jewelry. Many fail to use good screening procedures when hiring employees. Many are too loose with the access they permit to their back room. Friends, employees, boyfriends, children, customers, etc. commonly travel in and out of pawnshop back rooms across this nation. Give your customers a good reason to trust you with their property.

Lawyers, doctors, accountants, jewelers, hotel managers, firemen, chefs, airline pilots, policemen, and others take the opportunity to engage in ongoing education. To remain competitive and competent in this day and age, we must make every opportunity to engage in improving our knowledge and skills. Do you attend your state, regional, and national pawnbrokers association meetings and seminars? If not, the NPA National Convention [Pawn Expo] is a great place to start.

A few pawnbrokers fail to adhere to ethical business practices and don’t operate their stores in compliance with applicable laws and ordinances. This creates a multitude of problems for the “Good Guy” pawnbrokers. Operate your store with common sense, good ethics, high moral standards, community spirit, and within the law.

Some pawnbrokers are all too eager to default loans and seize property. The short-sighted nature of those pawnbrokers results in poor public relations when a greedy action results in the loss of both the pawn customer and a redeemable transaction. I’ve seen countless situations where a loan was defaulted at the stroke of midnight, only to sit on the shelves for years. Not smart.

A few (fortunately very few, but still too many) pawnbrokers seize pledged property prior to the date noted in their agreement with the pawning customer. Enact procedures to avoid the accidental involuntary forfeiture of pledged goods prior to the expiration of the customer’s contract with you. Mistakes can happen; however, this is a big no-no. If it happens and it’s not a mistake, you should forfeit your pawnbroker’s license.

All prudent business owners insure. Do you? Do you have liability insurance? Do you carry workman’s compensation insurance? Do you insure the property of others? Remember your fiduciary responsibility to your customers.

Some pawnbrokers still insist on using outdated cigar box accounting procedures. You have more in the box at the end of the day than you started with? Yes? Then you must have had a profitable day. Right? WRONG! Can you track your sales? Do you know what percentage of your profit is from interest income on loans? Get smart. Adopt modern accounting procedures and throw away that box.

More than 9 out of 10 pawnbrokers answer the following question incorrectly when I ask it: “What is your most important inventory item?” The answers I get are usually jewelry, electronics, or guns. The correct answer is CASH! The best way to make a profit in this industry is to turn inventory. This relates to number 12 above. If that item is sitting on the shelves out front, it’s not making you any money. So what if the guy redeems it and never comes back. You can now turn that money over and over and over and over. TURN YOUR INVENTORY! TURN YOUR CASH! I often think of the items in back as being connected to little meters. As long as they’re in back, the meter is usually ticking and profits are being created. When they are sitting out front, the meter is stopped cold. You get one tick, and that’s when it sells.

Many pawnbrokers really don’t know what business they’re in. If they think they are primarily in the retail business, they’re dead wrong. A pawnbroker is in the lending business first. Retail is only a byproduct of pawnbroking. All other profit centers are, and should be, secondary.

Membership. There are too many freeloaders in this industry. They need to be paying their fair share. They need to become members of the state associations and the NPA. The NPA is seeking members who are good, competent, responsible, and honest pawnbrokers.

I’ve placed myself in a very public position in my community. I’m a politician. Unfortunately, pawnbrokers like those described above, make my life very difficult in terms of public opinion and the opportunity for votes and support. Negative stereotypes, perpetuated by some of our peers in this industry, affect us all. And yes, at times I am embarrassed about being a pawnbroker. When? For the most part, it is when I enter one of the seedy establishments described herein or when a creep with a pawn license makes the front page or the evening news operating outside the law. This offends me and it should offend you.

I believe the biggest problem is that most of those offenders I’ve described see absolutely nothing wrong with the way they operate their businesses. What a shame. Pawnbrokers must conform to this professional competitive era we live in – or fail. Are you a leader in this evolving industry? YOU CAN BE!

Business consultant Steve Fowler is a former multistore pawn store owner and previous member of NPA’s Board of Directors. His pawn industry experience includes senior management responsibilities with Pawnbroker.com and Mister Money Holdings. For more information, visit SteveFowler.com.
]]>How does the CFPB’s Final Regulation Affect Vehicle Title Loan Products and Providers?https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2017/11/01/how-does-the-cfpbs-final-regulation-affect-vehicle-title-loan-products-and-providers/
Wed, 01 Nov 2017 17:32:03 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7468This Content is for Members Only
]]>Mastering the Pawn Professionhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2017/10/30/mastering-the-pawn-profession/
Mon, 30 Oct 2017 14:53:54 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7324An update on the CPP program

NPA’s Certified Pawn Professional (CPP) program is now in its third year and continues to attract new participants. Course offerings have been administered to over 120 pawnbrokers since its inception in 2015, with 11 of them completing the requirements to receive their CPP designation. Those who can now add “Certified Pawn Professional” to their bio include:

Douglas Braswell – Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers, Little Rock, AR

Don Clark – Clark Loan & Jewelry, Inc, Aberdeen, MD

Maurice Fuller – Chesapeake Square Pawn, Chesapeake, VA

Michael Gamber – Mentor Financial Jewelry and Loan, Mentor, OH

Roger Hunnicutt – Tiger Pawn Shop, Pendleton, SC

Ben Levinson – Dynasty Jewelry & Loan Ltd, Norcross, GA

Larry Nuckols – Brittex Financial, Inc, San Antonio, TX

Scott Paulsen – Peninsula Pawn, Seaford, DE

Willie Showell – Nathan’s Lynnhaven Pawn Shop, Virginia Beach, VA

James Starnes – American Pawn Exchange, Taylors, SC

Nick Uroda – Clark Loan & Jewelry, Inc, Aberdeen, MD

The CPP program covers a wide variety of topics that are essential to the business of a pawnbroker. Receiving the designation elevates the professional standards of the recipient, recognizing him/her as one who is committed to their profession. It can open opportunities for advancement, increase earning potential, improve business acumen, and build confidence in pawn knowledge.

Courses are offered several times a year – at Pawn Expo, the industry’s national convention and trade show, as well as at other select locations around the country. The six course offerings include:

Store Operations

Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations

Human Resources

Product Knowledge

Federal Regulations

Security, Risk, and Crisis Management

Who can participate?
New candidates to the program must have at least three years of full-time work experience in the pawn industry and must complete the CPP application prior to registering for the first course. There is an application fee of $25 for members and $50 for non-members. Approved CPP applications remain active for one year from the application approval date. If a candidate does not take their first course within one year, their application will become inactive and they must reapply.

Completing the CPP Designation
The CPP designation is obtained when a candidate completes the required number of courses, currently five out of six. Candidates have three years from the date of their first course to complete all required courses and they must recertify every three years in order to maintain their designation.

On-location courses are activity-based learning environments where the students actively participate and learn from their peers as well as the instructor. Courses begin at 8:30 a.m. and conclude at 4:30 p.m. Students must attend the full course and pass the exam at the end of course (offered that day) in order to receive credit. Breaks are provided throughout the day.

Once a student is registered for a course, the course workbook is emailed to them prior to the course date. Candidates are required to read the workbook prior to attending the course and are responsible for printing and bringing the course workbook with them. Exams cover the material in the workbook.
NPA membership is not required for participation in the CPP program, but it is highly recommended, and members do receive a significant discount on the course fees. The cost for each course is $199 for members; $499 for non-members.
So, why get certified if you already know how to do your job? Because it separates you from your peers and gives you the personal satisfaction that you have mastered your profession. And that’s a great return on your investment!

]]>South City Pawn: Wisdom from a West Coast Pawnbrokerhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2017/10/25/south-city-pawn-wisdom-from-a-west-coast-pawnbroker/
Wed, 25 Oct 2017 22:52:29 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7318Dave Newman is both president and head janitor of his South San Francisco, CA, store, South City Pawn. Established in 1969, he and his brother took ownership of the store in 1989. They have been members of NPA ever since.

National Pawnbroker (NP): What makes your stores different from other pawn stores in the area?

Dave Newman (DN): In a word, service. We pride ourselves in delivering a higher level of customer service than our competitors, and make each customer feel like they are a part of our family. I’m also a dog handler for the state and county Search and Rescue teams, and my dog, a 100-lb. German shepherd (who is also our store security officer), conducts regular therapy sessions with local kids in our store.

NP: In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing pawnbrokers today?

DN: From my perspective, the biggest challenge comes from the politicians who prey upon our customers by passing legislation and rules that look good on the surface, but, in reality, make it more difficult to obtain the financing they need to pay their bills.

NP: How has the new Military Lending Act rate cap affected your company?

DN: Not at all. We’ve always been a military-friendly business. Most of us are veterans ourselves, and we’ve always offered discounts to military members and their families as a way of saying thank you for the sacrifices they make. Here in California, we’re a low interest rate state anyway, so the new mandated rate didn’t really affect us. The question that should be asked is: How has the MLA affected the military families that are now afraid of using our services in fear that it will get back to their commanders and be reflected in their next evaluation?

NP: What advice would you give someone just entering the business?

DN:

You’re entering one of the most fun, educational, and rewarding career paths you could choose and one with many challenges and temptations.

Always remember that the customer is the only thing keeping you from getting a boring job like everyone else. Treat each customer like they’re special, and let them know you appreciate that they chose to come to you.

Be an active part of your community and give back to it often. You will stand out from your competition and be rewarded for your efforts.

Be patient with your customers. Many are in dire straits and you are their last recourse. Their attitude isn’t personal; you’re just the person in front of them when they felt the need to vent.

Whatever your buildout budget is starting out, double it, and then add a few extra dollars. Build a store that you’d be proud to have your family/friends/pastor/rabbi visit.

Always remember that your primary job is selling money and finding the balance between how much you give out without giving so much that the customer doesn’t come back for it.

Regardless of the profit, you can only sell it one time. But you can re-loan on it forever, and that is the goal.

No matter what part of town your store is in, you are in charge of the type of clientele you will attract, so build the store that will attract the type of customers you want.

Finally, there is no excuse for poor customer service. What you show the public, the public will reflect back at you.

NP: How does your company give back to the community?DN: Through volunteering in the school reading programs, donating instruments to the music classes, and by providing emergency assistance (food baskets). We also donate our services to search and rescue to aid community members in locating family members who have gone missing.

NP: Why are you a member of NPA?DN: I was originally sent to the NPA by my state association president (the second organizing meeting in Miami) in order to keep an eye out for anything being done nationally that could affect our state. I’ve stayed with the NPA since that time because the people have become family. Even after all these years, I still learn something new to take back to my store every time we get together.

NP: Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us.DN: “I have nothing else to say” should be a surprise to anyone who knows me.

Mr. Prochaska has been a driving force in the growth and development of the NPA. He has served on the association’s board of directors in nearly every capacity, including NPA president from 2011-2013. While steadily growing and maintaining his own chain of stores, adhering to the highest business and ethical standards, he contributed his time and energy to ensure the NPA developed under the same rigorous and watchful eye. He has provided the NPA countless volunteer hours, charitable and financial support, and is the first to volunteer for any task, regardless of how thankless it may be.

His intelligent and personal approach to industry issues, his unerring business acumen, and his formidable accounting skills have been made freely available to his colleagues. He has taught, travelled, consulted, and counseled fellow pawnbrokers through difficult years of growth and change at his own expense..

The Charles R. Jones Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals who, through their outstanding leadership and efforts, have gone above and beyond to make a significant and lasting impact on the pawn industry over the course of their pawnbroking career. Honorees are regarded by their peers as leaders in the industry and recognized as such, nationally.

History of the Charles R. Jones Lifetime Achievement Award:
Charles R. Jones served two terms as NPA President and considered the members of the Association his extended family. He traveled around the country to get to know pawnbrokers on a more personal level, learning as much as he could about their needs and concerns.

In recognition of his efforts on behalf of the pawn industry, Charles received the NPA Lifetime Achievement Award in June of 1997. Sadly, Charles passed away in October of that same year. His history of service and devotion to the industry was further honored by changing the name of this award to the Charles R. Jones Lifetime Achievement Award, which has been awarded over the years to pawnbrokers who have exemplified a similar devotion to the NPA and the needs of its membership.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) has selected Dynasty Jewlery & Loan Ltd, of Norcross, GA as the winner of the 2017 Outstanding Pawn Industry Image Award. Ben Levinson, company president, accepted the award during the association’s Annual Awards Luncheon at Pawn Expo in Las Vegas.

The NPA Outstanding Pawn Industry Image Award is presented annually to an NPA Pawnbroker or Affiliate member company who creatively generates positive awareness of the pawn industry through a print or digital marketing campaign. This is the first year the NPA is presenting this award.

Dynasty Jewelry & Loan Ltd has excelled at creating a multi-pronged marketing and public awareness campaign that utilizes email, radio, digital, social media, and television advertising focused on consumers seeking to buy, sell, and secure collateral loans. The campaign harnesses creative branding and professional imagery to depict a professional pawn store atmosphere and has put forth a pawn-positive message that reinforces the industry’s core values.

Bolstered by outstanding customer service and a commitment to high industry and ethical standards, their marketing campaign has resulted in superlative online reviews, excellent word of mouth advertising, and a positive standing in the community.

“One of our first customers who walked into our new location said, ‘I feel proud to pawn my items here,’” noted Joel Levinson, company vice president. “This compliment alone proved that our initiative in promoting ourselves and our industry has worked, and our customers see and feel the ‘Dynasty Difference’ when they walk through our doors.”

]]>Nick Uroda Awarded Young Professional of the Year by National Pawnbrokers Associationhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2017/07/11/nick-uroda-awarded-young-professional-of-the-year-by-national-pawnbrokers-association/
Tue, 11 Jul 2017 16:12:06 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7214Mr. Uroda was recognized at the Annual Awards Luncheon during Pawn Expo in Las Vegas.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) is pleased to announce that Nick Uroda of Clark Loan & Jewelry, Inc. in Aberdeen, MD, was selected to receive the 2017 NPA Young Professional of the Year Award. Mr. Uroda accepted the award during the association’s Annual Awards Ceremony at Pawn Expo in Las Vegas.

The NPA Young Professional of the Year Award recognizes young professionals who have demonstrated exceptional success in their businesses and local communities and have made a significant contribution to the pawn industry.

Mr. Uroda completed NPA’s Certified Pawn Professional learning program in 2016, becoming one of the first pawnbrokers to receive the CPP designation. His involvement in the NPA Legislative Conference, where he met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill, resulted in a greater of understanding of the positive role the pawn industry plays in serving the financial needs of Americans.

Within his company, Clark Loan & Jewelry, Mr. Uroda has instituted a number of initiatives to improve compliance, HR practices, advertising strategies, and safety measures. He has helped develop customer relations practices and store operations.

While attending college, he began working for Clark Loan & Jewelry with plans to become a state trooper. He remained, however, with the company and has advanced from seasonal stock work to a full-time managerial position, becoming an essential component of the company’s success.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) is pleased to announce Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers as the 2017 recipient of the NPA Outstanding Community Relations Award. Douglas Braswell, the company’s president, accepted the award at the Annual Awards Luncheon on July 11, 2017. The event was held at The Mirage in Las Vegas during Pawn Expo, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry.

With three locations in Central Arkansas, Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers’ mission is to build lasting relationships while meeting short-term needs in a positive atmosphere. Community begins in the store with customers and employees, and extends into the neighborhood and cities in which the stores are located.

The company supports several local charities by donating a percentage of each store’s sales as well as merchandise for auctions. Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers is actively involved in local outreach groups, including The CALL of Pulaski County, Faulkner County Boys & Girls Club, Children’s Advocacy Alliance, Exodus Project, Law Enforcement Officer Awards – 20th Judicial District, Pulaski County Sheriff’s Awards Banquet, and others. Additionally, in 2015, Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers donated 20 musical instruments to North Little Rock Middle School and provided a $1,000 grant earmarked for instrument refurbishment.

The Outstanding Community Relations Award was created in 2015 and is presented to an NPA Pawnbroker or Affiliate member company who advances the standard and quality of life in their community through public service or volunteerism.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) announced today the selection of Geib Refining Corp. as the 2017 NPA Industry Partner of the Year. Gieb Refining Corp., based in Warwick, RI, is a precious metals refiner who has served the pawn industry for decades. Geib Refining Corp. was recognized at the Annual Awards Luncheon during Pawn Expo in Las Vegas.

Geib Refining Corp. has supported the National Pawnbrokers Association as an industry partner since 2001 and has sponsored countless special events. In addition to winning this year’s award, they are also the 2007 NPA Industry Partner of the Year and have become a trusted precious metals refiner serving pawnbrokers across the country.

A second generation, family-owned business, the Geib’s have been melting metal for over 45 years. Incorporated in 1979, the company has grown considerably and has earned a reputation for integrity and reliability. The team at Geib Refining Corp. are also known for their personal relationships with pawnbroker clients and simple gestures of kindness, such as remembering birthdays, special events, or personal achievements.

The NPA Industry Partner of the Year Award is presented annually to an NPA Industry Partner who, through their performance and dedication, has shown significant support of the association and its members.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA), the only national trade association representing independent pawnbrokers, announced the selection of Lou Tansky, president of Uncle Ben’s Pawn Shop in Cleveland, OH, as the recipient of the NPA 2017 Pawnbroker of the Year Award.

Mr. Tansky was recognized for his exemplary service to the pawn industry on the national, state, and local levels. He served as the president of the Ohio Pawnbrokers Association for 14 years and continues to serve on its board. As a long-time member of the NPA, he has lent his time and energy to assist in nearly every facet of the association’s activities, from government relations to the member forum.

Throughout his career, he has worked diligently to update Ohio’s pawn statutes. In 2016, he played a pivotal role in uniting Ohio’s independent pawnbrokers with a large corporate pawn store chain to bring about key legislation that benefited all pawnbrokers in the state. He helped to implement continuing education courses for pawnbrokers and has fostered relationships with the press and law enforcement agencies to present the industry in positive light.

The award was presented to Mr. Tansky during the NPA Annual Awards Ceremony on July 11, 2017, at Pawn Expo, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry, hosted at The Mirage Las Vegas.

The NPA Pawnbroker of the Year Award is presented annually to an NPA member who, through his or her performance, has demonstrated exceptional success in their business and local community and has made a significant contribution to the pawn industry during the previous year

]]>Tim Collier Elected President of National Pawnbrokers Associationhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2017/07/11/tim-collier-elected-president-of-national-pawnbrokers-association/
Tue, 11 Jul 2017 15:51:46 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7200National Pawnbrokers Association announces the election of new president at NPA’s annual convention and trade show, Pawn Expo

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) is proud to announce the results of the 2017 annual election to select a new NPA president. The association is pleased to announce that Tim Collier, who has served as NPA’s Vice President for the last two years, will take on the role of NPA President in the upcoming 2017-2018 term.

Mr. Collier, of Pacer Ltd. in Little Rock, AR, has played a vital role in the association since 1995. He has served as acting chair of the NPA Government Relations Committee and was selected as the 2015 NPA Pawnbroker of the Year. He has dedicated countless hours supporting the association through involvement in community outreach, charitable giving, and government relations. Additionally, Mr. Collier serves as the President of the Arkansas Pawnbrokers Association.

“Mr. Collier has demonstrated a firm resolve in supporting the industry during the past two decades as a member,” said Larry Nuckols, Immediate Past-President of the National Pawnbrokers Association. “His service as Chairman of the Government Relations Committee alone has helped strengthen the pawn industry’s relationships with legislators and local law enforcement.

The elections results were announced at Pawn Expo 2017, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry, which was held at The Mirage Las Vegas.

Keller, TX – The National Pawnbrokers Association announced the results of the 2017 annual elections to select the Board of Directors and Executive Officers for the upcoming year. NPA is excited to announce the election of Tim Collier to the seat of NPA president for the upcoming term. Mr. Collier will work alongside co-executive officers Kathleen Barbee, Robert Anderson, and Kerry Rainey, who will serve as vice president, treasurer, and secretary, respectively.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) announced today the recipients of the Certified Pawn Professional designation, “CPP,” a recognized mark of distinction within the pawn industry. The CPP program is designed for experienced pawnbrokers to further their professional education and earn the designation “CPP.” The recipients were recognized at the NPA Annual Membership Meeting on July 11, 2017, at The Mirage Las Vegas.

The following pawnbrokers have achieved the designee status of Certified Pawn Professional (CPP):

CPP designees have had at least three years of professional pawnbroking experience and have been certified in a series of CPP learning programs, such as Store Operations; Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations; Human Resources; Product Knowledge; Federal Regulations; and Security, Risk, and Crisis Management. The program was created by the NPA in partnership with pawnbroker members who are experts in their field.

The CPP designation recognizes pawnbrokers who are committed to professional development and the attainment of the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their jobs at the highest level of quality and is also an avenue for employers to recognize and promote pawn professionals. The program builds on the NPA’s commitment to provide resources and tools to strengthen the pawn industry.

Keller, TX – The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2017 Future Business Leaders (FBL) Scholarships. Through generous donations by pawnbroker members of the NPA, the following seven students were awarded $1,000 scholarships:

Savannah Garris

Sponsor – Sylacauga Pawn Shop, Alpine, AL

Austin Dale Hipps

Sponsor – Larry’s Jewelry & Pawn, Harvest, AL

Julia Mae Newberry

Sponsor – Johnson Brothers’ Jewelry & Loan, Mansfield, OH

Destiny Owens

Sponsor – Lombard Financial Services, Inc, Fort Worth, TX

Joseph Marvin

Sponsor – Alan’s Jewelry & Pawn, Inc, Asheville, NC

Miranda Fulton

Sponsor – USA Pawn & Jewelry, Ridgeland, MS

Zachary McClain

Sponsor – USA Loans, Little Rock, AR

Dana Meinecke, Executive Director of the National Pawnbrokers Association, emphasized the importance of supporting aspiring business students with recognition and scholarships to help secure their continuing education. “The NPA community of pawnbrokers is committed to supporting the educations of the next generation of business leaders to further strengthen the industry,” said Mrs. Meinecke. “The Future Business Leaders scholarship program has awarded over $147,000 since its inception in 2003.”

FBL also awarded a $1000 scholarship to Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.). Since 1994, C.O.P.S. has donated over a million dollars in scholarships to survivors of fallen officers who do not receive tuition-free education as a state death benefit. C.O.P.S. provides scholarships to survivors who no longer meet their state’s eligibility for assistance.

The Future Business Leaders scholarship program was established to provide financial aid to individual applicants who are planning to enroll or are enrolled in an accredited two-year or four-year college or trade school.

Qualified applicants are children, grandchildren, customers, or employees of NPA members or an individual. Qualified applicants are sponsored by an NPA member in good standing. Student selection is based on academic performance, community leadership, and written essay submissions.

NPA is proud to be an active member in our communities by giving to programs like the Future Business Leaders scholarship and C.O.P.S. programs.

For more information, contact media@nationalpawnbrokers.org or visit NationalPawnbrokers.org.

]]>Beverly Loan Company: Pawnbroking From Coast To Coasthttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2017/06/21/beverly-loan-company-pawnbroking-from-coast-to-coast/
Wed, 21 Jun 2017 14:00:30 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7161Jordan Tabach-Bank is the owner and chief executive officer of three, soon-to-be-four, pawn stores in the U.S., including Beverly Loan Company, which has been a member of NPA since 1990.

National Pawnbroker (NP): Tell us about your company.Jordan Tabach-Bank (JTB): I am a third-generation pawnbroker; my grandfather founded Beverly Loan Company in Beverly Hills, CA, in 1938. I, along with my partners, also own New York Loan Company in New York City, NY, Jewelry-N-Loan in Costa Mesa, CA, and the forthcoming Chicago Loan Company in Chicago, IL. Jewelry-N-Loan is a more traditional jewelry-focused pawn shop catering to retail clients. The other three businesses are financial institutions located in the upper floors of AAA office buildings to ensure the confidentiality and safety of our clients and their collateral.

NP: What is your title and primary role?JTB: As the owner and chief executive officer, I am responsible for every facet of the business. The buck stops here. While I run rather low volume shops, the average loan amount is significant and the collateral is often complicated.

NP: What makes your stores different from other pawn stores in the area?JTB: Many shops lend against diamonds, gold jewelry, and fine watches, but we also have expertise in auction-worthy contemporary art, handbags, and memorabilia. Further, we are entrepreneurial, quick to act, highly discreet, and there is virtually no limit to the amount we can lend. How many pawnbrokers can say they have made a 6-figure loan against cases of Domaine de la Romanee Conti (arguably the world’s finest wine) or a 7-figure loan on a red diamond? Not many!

NP: In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges facing pawnbrokers today?JTB: I have always believed that the stigma of pawn is our biggest challenge. If lawmakers really understood that we are not predatory and that our loans are nonrecourse, we would be treated very differently. I have made it a personal goal to debunk the myths associated with pawn and to improve the industry’s tarnished reputation. With the help of the NPA, I think we are well on our way.

NP: What is your biggest challenge as a business owner?JTB: Running businesses 3,000 miles apart is certainly a challenge, but I think we are managing it very well. Being absentee owners took some growing pains, but by now we are a well-oiled machine with lots of frequent flyer miles.

NP: What advice would you give someone just entering the business?JTB: Run every penny through the company’s books. Having clean financials will allow you to secure a banking relationship, and access to capital is a game changer in our industry. I treat my business as a highly regulated financial institution that happens to see a lot of beautiful, tangible personal property, not as a retail jewelry store that happens to lend out dollars.

NP: What is your favorite thing about being a pawnbroker?JTB: I have attended dinner parties with A list actors, politicians, scientists, hedge fund managers, and professional athletes …but by the end of the meal, what I have found is that people are most fascinated with my line of work. There is no doubt I have a desk job, but it’s never boring!

NP: What changes would you like to see in the industry in the next 10 years?JTB: I’d like to see our reputation continue to improve, so that we will no longer be considered a regulatory risk by banks and a predatory lender by lawmakers. It is all about educating the public about non-recourse, asset-based lending, or pawn lending. And despite being on the high end, I do not fear the term “pawn”. Rather, I embrace “pawn”, and I genuinely hope that over the course of the next decade, others will feel the same way.

NP: Why are you a member of NPA?JTB: I am not only a member of the NPA, but I also sit on its Board of Directors and I am the co-chair of its government relations committee. I believe that all of the hours and money I have given to the NPA have been returned tenfold by providing my business with government advocacy and education. On account of my membership, I have personally built lifelong friendships with fellow pawnbrokers from across the country. You can’t put a number on that.

NP: Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us.JTB: A loan made by Beverly Loan Company helped fund a very famous dot-com. Which one? You’ll never know, but many of you have used it. There is a reason that our clients have trusted us for 80 years. We never name names!

]]>Pawnbroking Around The Worldhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2017/06/19/pawnbroking-around-the-world/
Mon, 19 Jun 2017 14:00:48 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7159Pawnbrokers have been in business for thousands of years and can be found all over the world. Customers come to them, hand over their item for pawn, and receive cash in return when they are short of funds. While most of the NPA’s members are located within the United States, the association has over 40 members from outside the country. They hail primarily from Canada and Mexico, but also Aruba, Australia, Guatemala, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Sweden.

We talked with three of our international members – Jean Henri D. Lhuillier of Cebuana Lhuillier in the Philippines, Peter Sundstrom of Pantbanken Sverige in Sweden, and Sean O’Connor of SuperLoans in New Zealand – to learn about the similarities (and the differences) of pawnbroking around the world.

Similarities

There are a number of similarities between these countries and the U.S., such as the redemption rates, the type of items pawned, the working hours, and licensing requirements. For example, the number of pawn loans redeemed ranged from 80-90 percent; the average U.S. redemption rate is 85 percent.

Most pawn stores in New Zealand are open Monday – Friday with some Saturday hours. The same holds true for Sweden with some stores open on Sundays. In the Philippines, there are even a few stores that are open 24 hours.

Pawnbrokers in the Philippines, New Zealand, and Sweden are all required to be licensed and must follow governmental regulations, such a presidential decree or a legislative act.

Items taken in for pawn are also similar to those in the U.S. Gold jewelry, electronics, watches, and power tools are the primary merchandise seen by these pawnbrokers.

Pawnbrokers in other countries, like those in the U.S., face added security risks. They, too, must take extra precautions and measures to deter criminals by using electronic security systems, alarms, 24/7 monitoring, and guards. In Sweden, they have installed glass walls between customers and staff for increased protection.

Differences

While there are many similarities, there are some differences among pawnbrokers in other countries. For example, New Zealand has only 41 pawn stores in the entire country and Sweden has just 62 (owned by 25 companies). On the other hand, the Philippines has over 16,000 pawn stores.

While the average pawn loan in the U.S. is $150, it is $250 in New Zealand. In the Philippines, it ranges from $350-$400 and, in Sweden, the average pawn loan is $500.

Another difference between these countries and the U.S. is that there is no cap on the interest rate. In the Philippines, pawnbrokers are encouraged to “keep it within the market”. In Sweden, most pawnbrokers charge from 3-3.5 percent per month, but there is no exact cap.

The number of multiple stores owned by one company is another variance. In the Philippines, most pawnbrokers have more than one store. In New Zealand, most owners have only one store, with just a few franchised stores in the country.

Despite these differences, one thing remains the same. No matter where they are in the world, pawnbrokers provide a much-needed resource to those who are short of cash.

There are no busier folks than pawnbrokers. Whether you are a new startup business or have a well-established store, chances are you have your hands full handling the day-to-day activities of running a pawn business. It is highly likely, then, that you have very little time to sit back and think about what will happen to the store if you decide to retire or, worse, become incapacitated. After all, who wants to think about that sort of stuff?

To most pawnbrokers, the business of running a shop is a labor of love. We do what we do because it not only provides us an income, but we truly love doing it. Each day is different, bringing with it our steady return customers along with a host of newcomers and even curious browsers who would never dream of actually buying anything. It is a day filled with new challenges, calling for us to use the talents and skills that we have acquired. The last thing most of us want to think of is the day that they will turn over the reins of the business we have labored in to someone else, even if that someone else is a trusted friend or family member. Giving up that control just isn’t something most of us look forward to and eagerly anticipate. Planning for it is not on the top of our list of things we want to do.

Even if you’ve thought about it or, perhaps, taken some steps to ensure that the business will live on after you leave it, you may be missing some key things that you need to take into consideration. Is a simple will or power of attorney adequate to sustain the business in your absence? Have you chosen to place your business into a trust and, if so, are you aware of the trustee’s ability to run the business during a transition? Does the state (or states) in which you operate have any requirements that would prevent a smooth transition, such as the experience levels, backgrounds, or financial status of your chosen successor(s)? Can your successor(s) obtain other specialty licenses, such as a transferred Federal Firearms Dealer License?

There aren’t a lot of studies available on successful succession planning for the pawn world. With little to point us in the right direction about how to create a smooth succession transition for pawn businesses, though, there are still indicators out there to follow. Fortunately, we are not alone in having to plan for business succession, so we can turn to other industries and occupations in the world of business that have already begun to study succession planning for clues about setting up a process that will result in a smooth transition for our own businesses. These early planners, although from different industries than ours, have given us some things to both think about incorporating as well as things to avoid in crafting our succession plans.

Borrowing the thoughts and findings from existing academic studies gave us a starting point for a recent NPA survey that I had the pleasure of helping to design. There was a great response rate on that survey and I intend to discuss what the NPA discovered at the upcoming Pawn Expo 2017. I hope that you’ll join me for a fun and informative session.

Becoming a pawnbroker wasn’t something that I had planned on in my life, but when my pawnbroker husband passed away and left half of his store to me, I found myself in a business that I find very rewarding. And, yes, you guessed it; he did not foresee all of the difficulties that I have faced in trying to take over the reins of the business. So, let me give you my perspective on succession planning in our upcoming event. I am looking forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas on succession planning so that I can continue to learn more about it in the world of pawnbroking. This session will take place on Tuesday, July 11, at 3:15 pm at The Mirage in Las Vegas, so make sure to mark your calendars. See you at Pawn Expo 2017!

]]>Pawnbrokers Report Decrease in Retail Sales as Online Competition Grows and Buying Trends Shifthttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2017/05/30/pawnbrokers-report-decrease-in-retail-sales-as-online-competition-grows-and-buying-trends-shift/
Tue, 30 May 2017 21:03:47 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7147The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) announced today the results of the NPA 2016 Trend Survey. The survey, which was conducted in early 2017, focuses on industry trends as reported by pawnbroker members of the NPA for the 2016 calendar year. One notable survey result indicated that 47 percent of pawnbrokers cited a decrease in retail sales. “Pawnbrokers’ core business is making collateral loans. However, we depend on retail sales to liquidate defaulted collateral,” notes NPA president, Larry Nuckols. He continued, “2016 proved to be a competitive year in retail, as many brick and mortar jewelry and consumer electronics businesses have been negatively affected by the growth in online sales.”

Analysis suggests that consumer behavior has shifted due to the proliferation of competitive online marketplaces, such as Amazon, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay. Additionally, fashion trends have steered buyers away from high-end jewelry and watches toward more affordable designer diffusion lines and mid-market items. As an example, the Jewelers Board of Trade has cited increases in jewelry store closings in 2016 at 66 percent above 2015 levels. This shrinking of the jewelry industry displays the dramatic change in the desire for, and value of, jewelry, a core retail product for pawnbrokers.

To further encumber pawnbrokers’ retail woes, rapidly evolving consumer electronics technology has reduced the long-term value of pre-owned electronics, such as iPhones, video games, tablets, and computers. “Consumer electronics have always been a mainstay for pawn stores to buy, sell, and loan on,” president Nuckols states, “but currently, these product lines are advancing and changing so quickly, they can lose their value within months, making potentially obsolete electronics risky for pawnbrokers to accept as collateral.” Collateral loans, also known as pawn loans, remain the primary focus of pawnbrokers’ businesses, with over 80 percent of pawnbrokers reporting that pawn loans are the most common transactions made. According to the survey, the national average pawn loan amount remained at $150.

Though the economy is doing well, more customers of pawn stores are struggling to repay loans. More than 40 percent of pawnbrokers surveyed stated they experienced an increase in defaults on pawn loans. This shift is significant, as the industry’s national average for pawn loan redemption has historically remained consistent at 85 percent, year over year. “Americans continue to turn to pawn stores for non-recourse, collateral-based loans,” said Nuckols. “While the pawn industry has grown more conservatively in recent years, increased public awareness, a positive image, and consumer-friendly stores attract new customers to pawn stores every day, and pawnbrokers have an optimistic outlook that all business will continue to increase in 2017. “

***
The NPA works to provide independent pawnbrokers nationwide with resources and tools to strengthen the pawn industry. NPA members are committed to operating their businesses in such a manner as to enhance and promote the positive and professional image of all pawnbrokers. Members believe in establishing positive and long-lasting relationships with local, state, and federal government officials. The NPA is the industry’s only national association and is located in Keller, TX.

]]>2017 NPA Legislative Conference Recaphttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2017/05/01/2017-npa-legislative-conference-recap/
Mon, 01 May 2017 17:47:37 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7482This Content is for Members Only
]]>URGENT Member Alert: CFPB Sues Four Additional Virginia Pawnbrokers for TILA Violationshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2016/12/20/urgent-member-alert-cfpb-sues-four-additional-virginia-pawnbrokers-for-tila-violations/
Tue, 20 Dec 2016 17:54:09 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7493This Content is for Members Only
]]>iPawn Arkansas’ Mike Willingham Awards Local Student $2,500 Scholarshiphttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2016/12/08/ipawn-arkansas-mike-willingham-awards-local-student-2500-scholarship/
Thu, 08 Dec 2016 23:37:58 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=440The Central Arkansas Boys & Girls Clubs chose their iPawn Arkansas Youth of the Year on December 1, 2016 at their annual Leadership Dinner. Each year, they celebrate a leader in the local community, as well as choose their Youth of the Year. iPawn Arkansas has had a very close relationship with the Boys & Girls Clubs and, this year, began providing the winner of the Youth of the Year with a $2,500 scholarship.

Shawn Richardson was chosen as the Youth of the Year. Shawn is a member of the Dalton Whetstone Unit and is a senior at Central High School in Little Rock. Shawn has worked hard on his academics and currently holds a 3.7 GPA.

Music is a universal language. Instruments teach something that makes people shine inside and out. Our Extraordinary Person of the Week goes above and beyond to make sure kids get the tools to speak that language. He calls himself a band geek and he is hitting all the right notes.

He has pawn shops from Charlotte to Wilmington.
“It makes me feel incredible,” he said of the donations.
But it’s what Bob Moulton does outside of the stores that is hitting all the right notes.

“It was six or seven years ago that I noticed we had a lot of instruments at National Pawn at all our our stores,” Moulton said, “and that there were a lot of kids that I’m sure would need instruments and their families just couldn’t afford to buy them.”

Just this past September, Moulton donated more than 100 instruments to DC Virgo in Wilmington where the band director told us just how incredible his kindness can be.

D.C. Virgo Band Director Dr. Crystal Britton said in our interview the day the students found out about the donation, “It means that children will have an opportunity to take their own instrument home so they can practice while they’re there.”

To date, Bob has donated some three thousand instruments that he could be making money off with his business.

Instead, he’s actually giving money away. “I think it’s about 3000 (instruments) and along with that, as of this year,” Moulton added, “it will be 50 thousand in cash we give to the schools for supplies and repair and maintenance on those.”

It’s an act that gives him rock star status, though he calls himself something a little different.

“I call myself a band geek, so I would like to challenge all the band geeks out there that may have a trumpet, trombone, claronette, flute or something in their closet, garage, attic, to go donate it to a school because we thought we were doing a lot but we are barely scratching the surface, there is such a need out there.”

Keller, TX –The National Pawnbrokers Association made public the results of the most recent elections to select the Board of Directors and Executive Officers for 2016. The association is pleased to announce that Larry Nuckols, of Brittex Financial in San Antonio, TX, will continue in the role of NPA president in the upcoming term. Mr. Nuckols will work alongside co-executive officers Tim Collier, Robert Anderson, and Kathleen Barbee who will serve as vice president, treasurer, and secretary, respectively.

The elections results were announced at Pawn Expo 2016, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry, which was held at The Mirage Las Vegas in July 2016.

For more information about the NPA, visit NationalPawnbrokers.org.

# # #

The NPA works to provide independent pawnbrokers nationwide with resources and tools to strengthen the pawn industry. NPA members are committed to operating their businesses in such a manner as to enhance and promote the positive and professional image of all pawnbrokers. Members believe in establishing positive and long-lasting relationships with local, state, and federal government officials. The NPA is the industry’s only national association and is located in Keller, TX.

]]>Diamond and Jewelry Specialist The Trendz Receives National Pawnbrokers Association Industry Partner of the Year Awardhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2016/07/12/diamond-and-jewelry-specialist-the-trendz-receives-national-pawnbrokers-association-industry-partner-of-the-year-award/
Tue, 12 Jul 2016 21:00:40 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=6600Los Angeles based The Trendz was honored at the NPA Annual Awards Ceremony at Pawn Expo in Las Vegas.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) awarded Los Angeles diamond and jewelry specialist, The Trendz, the 2016 NPA Industry Partner of the Year Award. The Trendz is a trusted pawn industry partner that has provided value and the highest standards of service since 2003.

The Trendz has been an Industry Partner member of the National Pawnbrokers Association for 13 years and has earned a reputation for excellence in the diamond and jewelry industry. They have supported pawn stores nationally by providing sponsorships, advertising and superior customer service. Ashok Mehta & Priya Mehta founded The Trendz in 2002, which is located in the Downtown Los Angeles Jewelry District. The Trendz has grown to become one of the top diamond and jewelry specialists in the industry.

The NPA Industry Partner of the Year Award is presented annually to an NPA Industry Partner who, through their performance and dedication, has shown significant support of the association and its members. The Trendz founding member, Ashok Mehta, was on hand to accept the 2016 Industry Partner of the Year Award at this year’s Annual Awards Luncheon. The ceremony was held at Pawn Expo on July 12, 2016 at The Mirage in Las Vegas, NV.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA), the only national trade association representing independent pawnbrokers, announced the selection of Greg Engstrom, founder of Ameripawn in Valparaiso, IN, as the recipient of the 2016 Pawnbroker of the Year Award.

The NPA Pawnbroker of the Year Award is presented annually to an NPA member who, through his or her performance, has demonstrated exceptional success in their business and local community and has made a significant contribution to the pawn industry during the previous year.

As a long-time member of the NPA, Greg Engstrom has shown a tireless commitment to the pawn industry through exemplary service to his local community, charitable giving, and support of the NPA government relations efforts. While serving as president of the Indiana Pawnbrokers Association, he demonstrated to law makers, his customers, and the community the important role that pawn stores play in the day to day lives of Americans.

“Mr. Engstrom’s efforts to strengthen pawnbrokers’ relationships with communities, law enforcement, and customers has benefited the association and the industry as a whole,” said Larry Nuckols, president of the National Pawnbrokers Association. “The association is proud to have a consummate professional and all-around standout pawnbroker among its ranks.”

The award was presented to Mr. Engstrom during the NPA Annual Awards Ceremony on July 12, 2016, at Pawn Expo, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry, hosted at The Mirage in Las Vegas, NV.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) is proud to award Earl Oller with its highest honor, the Charles R. Jones Lifetime Achievement Award. Mr. Oller was one of the key contributors to the growth of Oregon’s pawn industry and remained a strong advocate for pawnbrokers in his state and the nation for over 40 years. Mr. Oller’s son, Josh Oller of Silver Lining Jewelry & Loan, accepted the award on his father’s behalf at the NPA Annual Awards Luncheon at The Mirage Events Center in Las Vegas, NV.

The Charles R. Jones Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals who, through their outstanding leadership and efforts, have gone above and beyond to make a significant and lasting impact on the pawn industry over the course of their pawnbroking career. Honorees are regarded by their peers as leaders in the industry and recognized as such nationally.

Mr. Oller founded the Oregon Pawnbrokers Association in 1986 and served a near continuous term as president until 2014. He was a fierce advocate for pawnbrokers in Oregon, where he was a member of multiple task forces, partnering with the Oregon Department of Public Safety and the Portland Police Bureau.

He served the National Pawnbrokers Association for nearly a decade, including the NPA Advisory Board (1994), NPA Board of Directors (1996-1997, 2000-2001), and the NPA Board of Trustees (2002-2006), and helped mentor the next generation of leaders in the industry.

In the 1980’s, Earl Oller spearheaded a 15-year, statewide effort to eliminate unlicensed pawn stores in Oregon, helping to convert them to licensed and regulated businesses. He was a regular attendee of legislative sessions in Washington, DC, and helped educate state legislators, law enforcement, and local officials with the information he gathered.

Earl Oller passed away on March 9, 2016. His legacy will continue to provide guidance for pawnbrokers in Oregon and across the nation to navigate the ever-changing environment they face.

History of the Charles R. Jones Lifetime Achievement Award:
Charles R. Jones served two terms as NPA President and considered the members of the association his extended family. He traveled around the country to get to know pawnbrokers on a more personal level, learning as much as he could about their needs and concerns.

In recognition of his efforts on behalf of the pawn industry, Charles received the NPA Lifetime Achievement Award in June of 1997. Sadly, Charles passed away in October of that same year. His history of service and devotion to the industry was further honored by changing the name of this award to the Charles R. Jones Lifetime Achievement Award, which has been awarded over the years to pawnbrokers who have exemplified a similar devotion to the NPA and the needs of its membership.

]]>Kathleen Barbee Named National Pawnbrokers Association’s Young Professional of the Yearhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2016/07/12/kathleen-barbee-named-national-pawnbrokers-associations-young-professional-of-the-year/
Tue, 12 Jul 2016 21:00:09 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=6602The National Pawnbrokers Association honored Ms. Barbee at the Annual Awards Luncheon at Pawn Expo in Las Vegas.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) announced today the unanimous selection of Kathleen Barbee of Lombard Financial Services in Fort Worth, TX, to receive the NPA Young Professional of the Year Award. The NPA Young Professional of the Year Award recognizes young professionals who have demonstrated exceptional success in their businesses and local communities and have made a significant contribution to the pawn industry. The decision was announced at the association’s Annual Awards Ceremony at Pawn Expo in Las Vegas.

Ms. Barbee has demonstrated an unceasing commitment to the pawn industry and a dedication to fostering the next generation of pawnbrokers through networking, training, and education. She is a member of the NPA Board of Directors and currently serves as Board Secretary.

Ms. Barbee also heads the NPA Young Professionals Committee, addressing the emerging issues that face the industry in today’s economic and social media-driven landscape. She has brought young and millennial pawnbrokers from around the country face-to-face with legislators and decision makers on Capitol Hill.

“Ms. Barbee is leading the charge for a new generation of pawnbrokers,” said Larry Nuckols, NPA President. “We value her for her service to this association and to the industry, and are proud to call her a leader of the changing face of pawnbroking.”

Kathleen Barbee established her career working in the small businesses sector. She has served as Corporate Secretary to several Board of Directors and has had over 15 years of experience in both the business and legal sectors.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) is pleased to present Wright Pawn & Jewelry Company with the NPA Outstanding Community Relations Award. Mrs. Pamela Wright accepted the award at the Annual Awards Luncheon on July 12, 2016. The event was held at The Mirage in Las Vegas, NV, as part of Pawn Expo, the only national convention and trade show for the pawn industry.

Since founding Wright Pawn & Jewelry Company in 1992, Pamela Wright has dedicated time and resources to charitable giving and community outreach events, working at the ground level with community leaders to give back to the residents of Houston. Harnessing the power of media to raise awareness and change perceptions of the pawn industry, Mrs. Wright has appeared in print, radio, and television to advance the positive image of today’s pawn stores. She has successfully represented pawnbrokers on Great Day Houston and has been featured in several publications, including Houston Woman Magazine and Houston Modern Luxury.

Among her many credits, Mrs. Wright was selected as a 2014 Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce Breakthrough Woman, a 2013 ABC-13 Woman of Distinction, and one of 2012 Houston Woman Magazine’s Fifty Most Influential Women. She also serves as state regent of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), with whom she helped raise money to repair the Texas Governor’s Mansion after it was damaged by fire in 2008.

The Outstanding Community Relations Award was created in 2015 and is presented to an NPA Pawnbroker or Affiliate member company who advances the standard and quality of life in their community through public service or volunteerism.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) is proud to announce the launch of an online training module for pawnbrokers. In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of anti-money laundering as it pertains to the pawnbroker and dealers of precious metals industry. The course satisfies federal requirements under Title 31 mandating that training be provided and documented. Upon successful completion, participants are issued a certificate of completion.

“As a pawnbroker, there are always questions as to when, why, and how to fill out a Form 8300,” stated Larry Nuckols, NPA President. “The AML Compliance Training Module explains in a clear and concise manner the instances in which Form 8300 is required by law and ensures that pawnbrokers and precious metals dealers are operating in compliance with federal requirements.”

Participants in the course will learn the following: How to properly file an 8300Timelines and reporting of an 8300OFAC requirements governing your businessPolicy/Procedure and record keeping requirementsSuspicious Activity triggers relative to your businessWhen to file a SAR (Suspicious Activity Report)

This course has been crafted by Robert Frimet, an industry expert in anti-money laundering, as it pertains to trade/business and dealers in precious metals.

The course is now being offered to members of the National Pawnbrokers Association at reduced rates via the association’s website. For more information, visit Nationalpawnbrokers.org/OnlineTraining.

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) announced today the recipients of the Certified Pawn Professional designation, “CPP,” a recognized mark of distinction within the pawn industry. The CPP program is designed for experienced pawnbrokers to further their professional education and earn the designation “CPP.” The recipients were recognized at the NPA Annual Membership Meeting on July 12, 2016, at The Mirage in Las Vegas, NV.

The following pawnbrokers have achieved the designee status of Certified Pawn Professional (CPP).

CPP designees have had at least three years of professional pawnbroking experience and have been certified in a series of CPP learning programs, such as Store Operations, Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations, Human Resources, Product Knowledge, Federal Regulations, and Security, Risk, and Crisis Management. The CPP learning program was created by the NPA in partnership with pawnbroker members who are experts in their field.

Larry Nuckols, NPA President, reports, “The CPP designation recognizes pawnbrokers who are committed to professional development and the attainment of the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their jobs at the highest level of quality.” The CPP designation is also an avenue for employers to recognize and promote pawn professionals.

“The CPP designees will build a group of industry professionals who have demonstrated that they are dedicated to higher standards of practice in the pawn industry.” Mr. Nuckols added. The CPP program builds on the NPA’s commitment to provide resources and tools to strengthen the pawn industry.

]]>Online AML Compliance Program for Pawnbrokers MEMBERS ONLYhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2016/07/12/online-aml-compliance-program-for-pawnbrokers-members-only/
Tue, 12 Jul 2016 13:59:43 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=6587This Content is for Members Only
]]>Form 8300 Penalties Increase Effective Immediatelyhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2016/06/13/form-8300-penalties-increase-effective-immediately/
Mon, 13 Jun 2016 17:31:37 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7509This Content is for Members Only
]]>CFPB is Investigating Pawnbroker Compliance with TILA and Other Federal Consumer Protection Lawshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2016/05/05/cfpb-is-investigating-pawnbroker-compliance-with-tila-and-other-federal-consumer-protection-laws/
Thu, 05 May 2016 17:58:10 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7513This Content is for Members Only
]]>801751 NPA ATF Signed Final Responsehttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2016/03/22/801751-npa-atf-signed-final-response/
Tue, 22 Mar 2016 17:58:08 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=7647This Content is for Members Only
]]>Survey of Pawnbrokers Reveals Millennials Increasingly Turning to Pawn Storeshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2016/03/15/survey-of-pawnbrokers-reveals-millennials-increasingly-turning-to-pawn-stores/
Tue, 15 Mar 2016 22:15:07 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=6367

The National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) announced today the results of the NPA 2016 Trend Survey, which assesses how changes in the American economy and trends in collateral lending have affected the pawn industry since the beginning of 2015. An examination of pawnbrokers’ customer demographics helped determine that Millennials, the largest generation in the U.S. population, now account for a significant portion of pawn customers.

The NPA Trend Survey canvassed pawnbrokers from across the U.S. to collect a broad sweep of information, from the national average pawn loan amount, to data pertaining to cash for gold transactions and pawn customers’ ages. For the majority of pawnbrokers surveyed, consumers age 27 to 35 now make up over 40 percent of the average customer base for pawn stores, with the second largest age group consisting of customers aging from 33 to 40.

“While the average pawn customer is 36 years old, we are seeing an increase in younger consumers turning to pawn stores around the country,” said Larry Nuckols, president of the National Pawnbrokers Association. “Although the economy has stabilized more recently, Millennials are still confronted with growing economic uncertainties and fewer opportunities than previous generations. They are attracted to pawn stores’ unique form of non-recourse, collateral lending.”

Data gathered from the Trend Survey also indicates that the national average pawn loan amount continues to hold at $150. The average redemption rate, or the number of pawn loans that are repaid in full, remains at 85%, which is consistent with the national average from previous years.

Pawnbrokers saw a continued decline in cash for gold transactions in 2015, due to ebbing gold prices and a steady economic recovery which has slackened the gold market. However, pawn loans still make up the core of their business, about 86% according to the survey.

On December 6, 2015, the National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) celebrated its seventh annual Musical Instrument Gift Day, where pawnbrokers from around the country made donations of musical instruments to organizations in need. This year, NPA has seen an impressive response from pawnbrokers nationwide to the call to give, with donations of musical instruments and monetary gifts that will have a direct, positive impact on young lives for years to come.

Musical Instrument Gift Day was conceived as a way for pawnbrokers to celebrate National Pawnbrokers Day on December 6 by giving back to their communities. They took a note from the example set by St. Nicholas, the patron saint of pawnbroking, whose generosity and compassion is celebrated worldwide. The following “success stories” illustrate how NPA member pawnbrokers are making a difference one musical instrument at a time.

Bob Moulton – National Pawn (Durham, NC)

This is the fifth year in which National Pawn, with pawn stores in Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina, made substantial donations of instruments to five separate North Carolina school districts. This year’s donations total over 500 instruments and $10,000 cash.

“Last year we donated a total of more than 500 instruments and $8,000 to four districts,” said National Pawn’s Bob Moulton, who spearheads the annual donation effort. “This year’s donations will bring the total to more than 2,375 instruments and $38,000 cash since the program began in 2011. There are a lot of kids who are unable to play in the school band. National Pawn recognizes this, and we are proud that we can provide these children the opportunity to participate.”

Douglas Braswell – Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers (Little Rock, AR)

Douglas Braswell, of Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers in Central Arkansas, donated 20 musical instruments to North Little Rock Middle School and provided a $1,000 grant earmarked for instrument refurbishment. Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers has three locations in Conway and Little Rock, Arkansas. Mr. Braswell has made a commitment to contribute to the local community, annually.

“Supporting arts education in our public schools is a top priority for Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers,” said Mr. Braswell. “We believe it’s important for everyone in the community to play a role in fostering a strong education program for our children.”

Eric Modell – Modell Financial (New York, NY)

With eight pawn stores in the New York City metropolitan area, Eric Modell, of Modell Financial, Inc., stepped up to support The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation with a generous $1,000 donation.

“Everyone at Modell Loans is excited to know that these funds will help purchase new and refurbished instruments for children and band programs who wouldn’t otherwise have the means to purchase them on their own,” said Eric Modell.

The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation donates musical instruments to under-funded schools across the country in an effort to give students the many benefits of music education, help them achieve more in school, and inspire creativity and expression through playing music. Hundreds of thousands of students have benefited and thousands of instruments have been donated to 1,356 school music programs across the country. For more information visit www.mhopus.org.

Additionally, Eric Modell sponsors an annual scholarship that is presented to academically qualified children of career civil service employees of New York City.

Andrew Klinger – Uncle Sam’s Pawn (Columbus, OH)

Andrew Klinger of Uncle Sam’s Pawn Shop in Columbus, Ohio, donated 40 musical instruments to Champion Middle School. Champion Middle School Principal, Stephanie Bland, gave an elated response when interviewed. “This is going to open up our program wide open, so that our students can be the band people they want to be,” she said. “The kids will be super excited.”

The donation, which will keep the band program alive and give students the opportunity to develop their artistic talents, consisted of a wide mix of percussion, wind, string and brass instruments.

Gift Day

December 6th is also National Pawnbrokers Day, which coincides with St. Nicholas Day. Saint Nicholas of Myra is famed for his generosity to the poor and for his penchant for secretly leaving gifts for people in need. St. Nicholas, recognized in America as Santa Claus, was canonized as the Patron Saint of pawnbroking, and his three bags of gold soon became the international symbol of pawnbrokers.

Now in its seventh year, Gift Day has helped members of the National Pawnbrokers Association donate thousands of musical instruments to charity organizations supporting underprivileged children, families, and veterans. It’s never too late to help make a difference in your community. Musical Instrument Gift Day encourages NPA members and all who seek to support public school music education to donate musical instruments and funds to the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation year round.

To learn how you can support students’ education and arts enrichment, visit GiftDay.org.

]]>Five School Districts in North Carolina Receive 500 Musical Instruments from Bob Mouton of National Pawnhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2015/12/07/five-school-districts-in-north-carolina-receive-500-musical-instruments-from-bob-mouton-of-national-pawn/
Mon, 07 Dec 2015 19:45:05 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=381Five School Districts in North Carolina Receive 500 Musical Instruments from Bob Mouton of National Pawn
]]>North Little Rock Middle School Receives Donations from Braswell & Son Pawnbrokershttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2015/12/07/north-little-rock-middle-school-receives-donations-from-braswell-son-pawnbrokers/
Mon, 07 Dec 2015 19:41:10 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=372Douglas Braswell, of Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers in Central Arkansas, donated 20 musical instruments to North Little Rock Middle School and provided a $1,000 grant earmarked for instrument refurbishment. Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers has three locations in Conway and Little Rock, Arkansas. Mr. Braswell has made a commitment to contribute to the local community, annually.

“Supporting arts education in our public schools is a top priority for Braswell & Son Pawnbrokers,” said Mr. Braswell. “We believe it’s important for everyone in the community to play a role in fostering a strong education program for our children.”

The Columbus middle school was given at least 40 instruments free of charge.

They are gifts from Uncle Sam’s Pawn Shop on Main Street in downtown Columbus.

Much of the store is a music museum, and for all the instruments you see on the display floor, there are several more in the back that you don’t. Andrew Klinger, who is currently running Uncle Sam’s, said his business is giving several dozen of those instruments away.

They have the supply; a Columbus school had the demand.

“There is a school that is six years old…Champion Middle School, that is in need of a music program,” said Klinger.

“I cannot even begin to tell you,” said Stephanie Bland, the principal of Champion who was trying to put into words what the gift will do for the school.

Thousands of dollars worth of musical instruments will be given to the school.

So as we enter this holiday season, there will be the gift of music to some students at Champion Middle School.

“This is going to open up our program wide open so that our students can be the band people they want to be” said Bland. “The kids will be super excited.”

“We have over 40 instruments that we’re going to donate to make sure these kids have a full-blown orchestra,” said Klinger.

Uncle Sam’s Pawn musical instrument donation photo gallery.

]]>Share Your Donation Success Stories and Support Musical Instrument Gift Day 2015https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2015/11/10/share-your-donation-success-stories-and-support-musical-instrument-gift-day-2015/
Tue, 10 Nov 2015 06:00:46 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=6143 National Pawnbrokers Day, December 6, is right around the corner, so it’s time to get ready for Musical Instrument Gift Day!

On December 6, 2015, the National Pawnbrokers Association is celebrating its seventh annual Musical Instrument Gift Day, where pawnbrokers from around the country make generous donations of musical instruments to organizations in need. Last year, Gift Day worked with The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation to donate funds and new and gently used musical instruments to students at the Mae Hensley Junior High in Ceres, CA. Learn more at GiftDay.org.

This year, the NPA is encouraging members to share their success stories of musical instrument donations and other charitable or community giving events. Please send any photos, stories or testimonials to Margie@NationalPawnbrokers.org. The NPA will publish your donations and events on GiftDay.org. The NPA will publish your donations and events on GiftDay.org! Sharing your stories with the NPA will help spread the word about the positive relationships that pawnbrokers have with their communities.

NPA members can also donate financial support or new or gently used musical instruments to The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation. The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation donates musical instruments to under-funded schools across the country in an effort to give students the many benefits of music education, help them achieve more in school and inspire creativity and expression through playing music. Hundreds of thousands of students have benefited and thousands of instruments have been donated to 1,356 school music programs across the country. For more information visit www.mhopus.org.

Share your success stories with the NPA to be published on GiftDay.org

Make financial donations or ship high-quality, new or pre-owned musical instruments directly to the NPA’s official musical instrument charity, The Mr. Hollands Opus Foundation.

December 6th is also National Pawnbrokers Day, which coincides with St. Nicholas Day. Saint Nicholas of Myra is famed for his generosity to the poor and for his penchant for secretly leaving gifts for people in need. St. Nicholas, recognized in America as Santa Claus, was canonized as the Patron Saint of pawnbroking, and his three bags of gold soon became the international symbol of pawnbrokers.

Now in its seventh year, Gift Day has helped members of the National Pawnbrokers Association donate thousands of musical instruments to charity organizations supporting underprivileged children, families, and veterans.

Three additional courses are currently in development and will be available in 2016.

The CPP designation was created in 2015 by the National Pawnbrokers Association to provide a professional designation for individuals in the pawn industry. The designation will elevate professional standards and be the recognized mark of distinction among those in the pawn business. More information on the CPP program can be found here.

The cover of the Winter 2015 issue of National Pawnbroker magazine depicts the crossroads of Pawn and Washington, DC. This very intersection is where over 50 pawnbrokers from around the country met for NPA’s Annual Legislative Conference on April 29, 2015. This group of independent pawnbrokers seized the opportunity to make their voices heard to the Members of the 114th Congress.

Attendees at this year’s conference included:

Dave Adelman

Jay Dunbar

Jeff Knight

Kevin Prochaska

Robert Anderson

Cathy Gish

Ben Levinson

Kerry Rainey

Kathleen Barbee

Rick Gish

Christopher McCarthy

Chase Rainey

Amy Barber

Seth Gold

Eric Modell

Sam Shocket

Dale Barber

Michael Goldstein

Brian Moulton

Jordan Tabach-Bank

Edward Bean

Jon Green

Bob Moulton

Mary Tansky

Fran Bishop

Marc Gundersheim

Boyd Naylor

Lou Tansky

Douglas Braswell

John Higney

Larry Nuckols

Raphael Tincher

Michael Cohen

Brent Kalafat

Josh Oller

Scott Watson

Tim Collier

Karen Kalafat

Rita Paulsen

Jason Weinger

David Crume

Lauren Kaminsky

Scott Paulsen

Heidi Werner

Bill Dawson

David Kaminsky

Troy Paulsen

Chuck Williams

A welcome reception was hosted on the eve of the Conference by long-time NPA Industry Partner, Pease & Curren. Pawnbroker attendees renewed old friendships, became acquainted with first-time attendees, and talked over the mission at hand.

The Wednesday morning breakfast speaker was Representative Mick Mulvaney of South Carolina. Rep. Mulvaney was well versed on the subject of pawnbrokers having their banking services and relationships discontinued and related the story of a pawnbroker in his district experiencing what is commonly known as “Operation Choke Point”. This is a perfect example of grassroots politics and the importance of educating your elected officials about pawn industry policy issues.

An extensive briefing of attendees by NPA Government Relations Chair, Tim Collier, and NPA Lobbyist, Cliff Andrews covered a variety of subjects and included a mock Hill meeting. Everyone enjoyed seeing ‘Pawnbroker Cliff’ under the scrutiny of ‘Congressman Collier’. No doubt remained that Cliff is a Lobbyist and not a pawnbroker.

Earlier that morning, NPA Government Relations Liaison, Fran Bishop; Regulatory Counsel, Professor Sarah Jane Hughes; and NPA Treasurer, Rob Anderson had attended a meeting at the FDIC. They provided a chronology of developments to FDIC officials pertaining to “Operation Choke Point” and the loss of banking relationships by pawnbrokers dating back over two years. The NPA was complimented on the proactive steps and educational measures taken on behalf of the pawn industry, the same compliment received during a prior meeting with the FDIC in September 2014.

Our appreciation was extended to the FDIC for their industry communications encouraging insured depository institutions to serve their communities by taking a risk-based approach in assessing individual customer relationships rather than denying banking services. Educating regulatory agencies is as important as making sure your elected officials understand the pawn industry. The NPA must continue to hear from you about any instances of account discontinuance and loss of banking services.

Armed with NPA information materials, Hill guides, and maps, Legislative Conference attendees were divided into state and regional groups and set off to attend over 70 meetings in the House of Representatives and the Senate. The NPA folders left behind at each meeting contained Pawn Industry FAQs; Fact Check: Pawnbrokers are NOT High-Risk Businesses; Pawn transactions should remain exempt from the Department of Defense proposed changes to the Military Lending Act as it applies to “consumer credit” talking points; discussion pieces about bank discontinuance, and many more topics. During the course of the day, many pawnbrokers attended NPA-hosted fundraisers for prominent Members of the House and Senate.

The long and successful day was capped off with a debriefing dinner that was sponsored and hosted by NTR Metals, another long-time NPA Industry Partner.

We extend many thanks to all who took time from their busy schedules to travel to Washington and participate in the 2015 NPA Legislative Conference. Preparations are already in motion for next year’s conference on April 27, 2016. Watch for more information to come. We hope you plan to join us.

Fran Bishop, NPA Government Relations Liaison
NPA Past President

]]>Membership: NPA Member Anniversary Awardshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2015/09/21/membership-npa-member-anniversary-awards/
Mon, 21 Sep 2015 16:45:08 +0000https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/?p=6039The NPA would like to thank all members who have provided continuous support for the past 10, 20, and 25 years of service. Your membership dollars and long-term commitment to the association have enabled us to provide advocacy, education, and mentoring benefits to the pawn industry since 1987. All award members will receive a membership lapel pin signifying their years of support.

“The music program at Mae Hensley is growing every year. The students in band right now have been doing their best to play on some old and broken instruments. I am looking forward to putting these new instruments in the kids’ hands and seeing their faces light up when they can make an easy beautiful tone! The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation is not just giving us new instruments; they are giving us a greater sense of pride, school spirit, and purpose for our band program. Thank you for this amazing gift!” Aimee Hirsch, Music Teacher, Mae Hensley Junior High, Ceres CA

You make this possible – without you, teachers like Mrs. Hirsch and their students would not have the wonderful opportunity to experience their personal best, complete with music education.

Having the chance to play an instrument in school is only part of what your support provides for young people. You add joy to their lives, help them be better students, give them confidence and a voice. This gift will have lasting effects.

Thank you for your very generous gift to The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation in honor of NPA’s Musical Instrument Gift Day and for opening up opportunities to kids through music. It has been an honor working with your organization.

We appreciate your continuing support and we look forward to updating you about our work and how together, we are keeping music alive in our schools.

Warmly,

Felice ManciniPresident and CEO

]]>Lee High School in Huntsville, Alabamahttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2014/04/19/262/
Sat, 19 Apr 2014 17:18:52 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=262The National Pawnbrokers Association and The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation Collect Instruments and Funds for Lee High School in Huntsville, Alabama!

Through musical instrument donations from pawnbrokers across the country, The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and Musical Instrument Gift Day are making music, one donation at a time.

Fran Bishop, NPA Members and Lee High School Band and Faculty in Huntsville, AL

On April 17, 2014, the National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) celebrated its fifth annual Musical Instrument Gift Day, where pawnbrokers from around the country made donations of musical instruments to organizations in need. This year, The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation identified Lee High School in Huntsville, AL as a school music program in need of assistance.

Thanks to the generous donations of pawnbrokers and the successful partnership with The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, Lee High School received a donation of the following musical instruments:

2 sousaphones

2 snare drums

2 baritones

2 trumpets

3 pair marching cymbals

1 refurbished trombone

2 refurbished clarinets

The total retail value of this donation was $17,848!

NPA members Robert Barnett from Larry’s Pistol & Pawn Huntsville, AL; Rosemary Hipps from Larry’s Jewelry and Pawn in Florence, AL; and Fran Bishop from Dollar Pawn in Haleyville, AL presented the musical instruments to students at the donation ceremony. The students and teachers at Lee High School will use these new instruments to jumpstart their music program after setbacks due to cuts in funding. Mr. Barnett notes, “The band students were very thankful and ecstatic to have new instruments. Band director, Mr. Michael Knotts, was nearly speechless when he was discussing how important these new instruments will be in increasing the morale and quality of the entire Lee High School band program.”

The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation is a non-profit organization that donates both new and quality refurbished instruments to under-funded music programs that lack the resources to keep up with equipment loss, and accommodates students on waiting lists or who have to share instruments.

Through musical instrument donations from pawnbrokers across the country, The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation and Musical Instrument Gift Day are making music in Jackson, MS, one donation at a time.

On December 6, 2012, the National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) sponsored its fourth annual Musical Instrument Gift Day, where pawnbrokers from around the country made generous donations of musical instruments to organizations in need.

On March 26th the National Pawnbrokers Association and The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation will hosted a donation event at Rowan Middle School in Jackson, MS by presenting the donated musical instruments to the the band program and students.

Musical Instrument Gift Day (December 6th) is also National Pawnbrokers Day as well as Saint Nicholas Day. Saint Nicholas of Myra, the Patron Saint of pawnbroking, is famed for his generosity to the poor and for his penchant for secretly leaving gifts for people in need. He is recognized in America as Santa Claus and his three bags of gold has become the international symbol of pawnbrokers.

This year, NPA worked closely with The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, a non-profit organization that donates both new and quality refurbished instruments to under-funded music programs that lack the resources to keep up with equipment loss, and accommodates students on waiting lists or who have to share instruments.

Inspired by the acclaimed motion picture Mr. Holland’s Opus, the film’s composer, Michael Kamen, started the foundation in 1996. Every year, an average of 10,000 young people across the country benefit from the foundation’s programs.

The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation identified the band program at Rowan Middle School in Jackson, MS as a candidate in need of support. The school has a limited inventory of musical instruments, many of which are beyond repair and unplayable.

Now in its fourth year, Musical Instrument Gift Day has donated thousands of musical instruments to charity organizations supporting underprivileged children, families, and veterans. The NPA membership has donated gently used instruments and financial contributions that were converted into new musical instruments to support the music education efforts of The Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundations’s recipient programs.

]]>Combat-Wounded Veterans Receive a Gift of Music and Healinghttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2011/10/02/combat-wounded-veterans-receive-a-gift-of-music-and-healing/
Sun, 02 Oct 2011 21:21:25 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=249On September 21, 2011, the National Pawnbrokers Association (NPA) sponsored its third annual Musical Instrument Gift Day. Pawnbrokers from around the country made generous donations of musical instruments to aid combat-wounded veterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Donation ceremonies were held at 3 key veterans facilities: the Warrior and Family Support Center in San Antonio, the Armed Services YMCA Naval Medical Center in San Diego, and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD.

Veterans were surprised with full drum sets, new guitars, keyboards, and drum sticks and drum pads used to aid in music therapy and recovery.

NPA is working closely with Wings for Warriors, a non- profit organization whose mission is to provide necessary tools, insights and resources for combat-wounded veterans as they go through the recovery process and transition into new realities.

Anthony Ameen, the organizationʼs founder and a combat-wounded veteran who served in Afghanistan, stated, “My recovery was helped immensely through music therapy by playing the guitar. We are excited to work with the NPA to deliver the gift of music to help speed the recovery of combat- wounded veterans.” Visit WingsForWarriors.org to learn how the organization is changing lives.

Now in its third year, Gift Day has donated thousands of musical instruments to charity organizations supporting underprivileged children, families, and veterans.

]]>Pappy’s Song to Studentshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2011/08/02/pappys-song-to-students/
Tue, 02 Aug 2011 08:11:53 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=79Pappy Clarke from Pappy’s Pawn in Knoxville, TN was recently featured on his local TV News Station as a Gift Day donor.

In addition to making a generous donation to local schools, Pappy wrote this touching song, and it is with his permission that we post it below:

Let me tell the story- I can tell it all
About a local pawnshop
That came to give it all,
to those needy students,
covering our land,
Who want to play an instrument
If they had it in their hand.
Money’s gotten tighter,
In these past few years,
You can see the disapointment
In our childrens tears.
But if we come together
Like the Beatles said
We can bring much joy
and put music in their heads.
And it’s for students, students
All across this land
Dust off that old instrument
And put it in their hand.
Students, students
Let’s give to those who need
Give the gift of music
And plant that early seed!

On December 1, Governor Sonny Perdue met with pawnbrokers from around the state to take part in the National Pawnbrokers Association’s Musical Instrument Gift Day. At least 8 Georgia pawn shop owners pledged over 70 instruments to donate to the Charles R. Drew Charter School. Governor Perdue selected the school at an event in his office with students, faculty and members of the local businesses making the donations. The school is a part of a successful initiative to redevelop the community of East Lake and will use the musical instruments to build a strong music program. Georgia native Dave Adelman, former President of the National Pawnbrokers Association, spear-headed the effort with the Governor. The Governor released an official proclamation declaring December 6th, 2009 Pawnbrokers Day.

]]>Louis Stokes VA Medical Centerhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2011/08/02/louis-stokes-va-medical-center/
Tue, 02 Aug 2011 08:07:45 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=73On December 4th Lou Tansky, President of the Ohio Pawnbrokers Association and owner of Uncle Ben’s Pawn Shop in Cleveland, worked with pawn shops from across the state to donate a collection of musical instruments to the Louis Stokes VA Medical Center’s music therapy program.

The program uses music to address emotional and psychological needs of veterans, while assisting in rehabilitation. The donation took place at the Brecksville facility, which provides care to over 95,000 veterans each year in northern Ohio.

Ken Prine from Insta-Cash Pawn organized pawnbrokers in East Dallas to Donate musical instruments to the Longview Boys and Girls Club. Robert Nash the club’s director was on hand to accept the instruments along with children from the program.

Pawn shops in 17 states across the country are joining forces this holiday season to provide underprivileged children with hundreds of musical instruments. The National Pawnbrokers Association, who is sponsoring the event, has christened the effort Musical Instrument Gift Day, and the program is designed to put musical instruments into the hands of children who need them the most.

This effort is part of a larger program held in honor of St. Nicholas Day – Patron Saint of Pawnbroking – and National Pawnbrokers Day, December 6. Pawn shops across the country are organizing donation drives to supply badly needed musical instruments to local charity organizations and schools who, due to drastic budget cuts in state education funds, can’t supply enough instruments to form a small band. For more information on this effort, visit www.GiftDay.org.

Pawn shops traditionally have a history of donating musical instruments and awarding scholarships to support the young members of their communities. On December 1, Georgia’s Governor Sonny Perdue met with pawnbrokers from around the state to take part in the National Pawnbrokers Association’s Musical Instrument Gift Day. At least 8 Georgia pawn shop owners pledged over 70 instruments to donate to the Charles R. Drew Charter School, located in a troubled suburb of Atlanta. Read the full article…

Jim Clarke, better known as “Pappy” of Pappy’s Pawn Shop, keeps his place rocking with guitars, flutes, violins, and trumpets. His pawn shop looks a lot like a music store. It’s filled with all types of instruments. If you look around, it’s obvious Pappy has a passion for music. For him, loving music also means sharing it with others.

The National Pawn Brokers Association contacted pawn shops all around the country, asking them to donate musical instruments to local schools in their area. Pappy is donating a host of instruments to Knox County Schools.

“They’ve been underfunded this year and there are a lot of students that want to play and they don’t have the instruments to play,” Pappy says. “You want to plant that early seed and get them playing you know, cause it will really help with some frustrations.” Read the full article…

]]>A Gift Of Musical Proportions To The School For The Deaf And The Blindhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2011/08/02/a-gift-of-musical-proportions-to-the-school-for-the-deaf-and-the-blind/
Tue, 02 Aug 2011 07:53:12 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=58By: Mary Lu Saylor

Published: December 08, 2009

A symphonic surprise for students at the South Carolina School For The Deaf And The Blind. Monday the students received new and gently used instruments thanks to the Downtown Spartanburg Lions Club and the National Pawnbrokers Association.

The school received everything from flutes to drums. The school says the instruments have been on their wishlist for a while. Click here to go to the school’s wishlist.

As part of the holiday festivities, SCSDB dedicated a plaque commemorating the Spartanburg Lions Club’s gifts to the schools over the last 76 years. Read the full article…

The halls are alive with the sound of music or they soon will be now that the students at the South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind got their long-awaited wish!

Students were granted the gift of music on Monday. The surprise gifts were provided by Myrtle Beach-area pawn shops, including Dick’s Pawn, Jim Starnes, owner of American Pawn Exchange, the Downtown Spartanburg Lions Club and other members of the National Pawnbrokers Association from around the state of South Carolina. Read the full article…

The S.C. School for the Deaf and the Blind will be a happier and much noisier place because of a generous gift from the S.C. Pawnbrokers Association and the Lions Club.

Students and staff members of the school were surprised Monday afternoon with trumpets, drums, xylophones, cymbals, guitars, flutes, saxophones, drums and other instruments collected by the pawnbrokers during the past few weeks. In honor of National Pawnbrokers Association Musical Gift Day, the state association selected SCSDB to receive the musical instruments as gifts.

The school’s Fine Arts director, Chip Walters, said she has longed to bring musical instruments to the campus, but budget cuts and cutbacks in grant funding made her wish impossible to fulfill.

She and Melanie Gladstone, who teaches music classes to all students, were overwhelmed by the surprise presentation made following the annual Lion’s Club luncheon on Monday. Students thanked the club for its year-round support with a musical presentation.

Walters and Gladstone were brought to tears when they saw the instruments, most with gift bows attached.

Gladstone said she wanted to introduce students to musical instruments, but thought it would have to be done in phases because of the expense.

“We’ve just taken a huge stride instead of a lot of small baby steps,” Gladstone said.

“Instruments were high on our wish list because these students might not have an opportunity to play if they don’t get it here,” Walters said. “Every child has an opportunity to participate in fine arts, and this takes it to the next level where they’re able to learn how to hold and play instruments.”

Marquise Malachi, 10, is a deaf student at the school and has never played a musical instrument. Now, he will learn.

Walters said some of the deaf students are slightly or moderately hearing impaired, and some can hear beats and vibration.

“Most of our students love to dance, love to sing, and this gives them another outlet,” she said.

Eric Johnson, a 20-year-old blind student, has played the drums his entire life. He now will help other students learn to play.

SCSDB Interim President Maggie Park said new doors were opened at the school Monday.

“There are so many new things we can do now,” she said. “We can expand after-school program offerings and have a small band — this is just wonderful.”

The pawnbrokers association began collecting instruments a couple of weeks ago from more than 20 pawnbrokers statewide. Janis Feazelle, president of the S.C. Pawnbrokers Association, said new instruments will be added, and the school will be outfitted with replacement parts and musical stands.

Jim Starnes, the second vice district governor for the Lions Clubs in the Upstate, is the owner of American Pawn Exchange in Greenville, Woodruff and Taylors and is a member of the National Pawnbrokers Association. He partnered with Wendy Bailey of the Spartanburg Lions Club to get the school’s wish list and helped pull off the surprise.

After seeing the students’ faces, Starnes said it reaffirmed the group’s decision to donate instruments. Read the full article…

]]>Music students get their hardware for a songhttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2011/08/02/music-students-get-their-hardware-for-a-song/
Tue, 02 Aug 2011 07:47:19 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=51Filed by Lisa Roberson December 7th, 2009

ELYRIA — Inside a back room at Steve Smith’s North Ridge Road business, Park and Pawn, musical instruments are sometimes easy to find.

They are there because down-on-their-luck customers trade them in for cash, or parents of children long removed from the school band want to clear out their closets. They hang from rafters and sit on shelves, waiting for someone to take them home and breathe new life into them.

Typically, their exit from the store is made possible because of a cash transaction, but last week each one — a flute, clarinet, trumpet, violin and bass guitar — was carried out of the stores in the arms of Elyria Schools teacher Mark Wainwright.

That’s because Smith donated the instruments to the district’s music program in conjunction with the National Pawnbrokers Association Musical Instrument Gift Day.

The program is designed to put musical instruments into the hands of children who need them the most. In Elyria, that describes nearly everyone in the music program, Wainwright said.

“I can’t even begin to calculate how many children rent instruments from us,” he said. “We always have someone who needs an instrument.”

Wainwright is the district’s lead instrumental music teacher and divides his time between Westwood Middle School and Elyria High School. He said the instruments will be sent to Driscol’s Music Co. in Lorain for refurbishing and tuning. Each instrument is a quality music piece but has seen better days.

“These are good, name-brand, quality instruments that if you put some work into them, you will have a good instrument,” Wainwright said.

Smith said he gets lots of instruments at his pawn shop. He normally sells them as is or the original owners buy them back weeks after dropping them off for a loan. However, as soon as he heard about the Musical Instrument Gift Day, he began setting the instruments to the side for donation.

“I plan to make this a continuing project of mine,” he said. “This will be good for Elyria Schools and Lorain (Schools). I feel as if I have to help both because I sort of straddle the line here between the two cities.”

North Ridge Road, where Smith’s business is located, is spilt between Elyria and Lorain with the south side of the street being in Elyria proper and the north side being in Lorain proper. Read the full article…

A Michiana pawn shop’s generosity is music to the ears of some local children.

South Bend’s Worldwide Jewelry and Pawn joined pawn shops all over America for Musical Instrument Gift Day. The store gave six guitars out to Michiana children on Friday. The shop’s owner says it feels good to give.

“It’s a wonderful thing to be a participant of,” said Tom Howard. “You can give back to society, give to the children who need it.” Read the full article…

Enterprise pawn shop owner Michael Welch believes music can make a difference in a child’s life and Thursday, Welch donated the gift of musical instruments to students in Hilda Hagins’ music appreciation classes at Rucker Boulevard and Harrand Creek Elementary schools.

Presenting Hagins three flutes and one clarinet, Welch said pawn shops nationwide are encouraged to donate badly-needed musical instruments to local charities or schools.

“This is all about giving and it’s a proven fact that kids who are involved in playing musical instruments make better grades,” he said. “These instruments may make a difference in the life of a child, and due to the slashing budget cuts in schools today, I hope these will make a difference.” Read the full article…

]]>Pawn Express donates instrumentshttps://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2011/08/02/pawn-express-donates-instruments/
Tue, 02 Aug 2011 07:32:36 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=37Christmas came early for the Goshen High School Band.

Joey Holley, owner of Pawn Express of Troy, donated 20 musical instruments to the band Wednesday as part of a nationwide effort on the part of pawnbrokers to provide musical instruments to underprivileged children.

Holley said the donation was made in support of Musical Instrument Gift Day, which is sponsored by the National Pawnbrokers Association. Read the full article…

]]>New CLSD Foundation Provides Band Instruments to San Jose School March 25, 2009https://nationalpawnbrokers.org/2011/08/01/new-clsd-foundation-provides-band-instruments-to-san-jose-school-march-25-2009/
Mon, 01 Aug 2011 08:13:40 +0000http://giftday.org/?p=81March 25, 2009 – The Collateral Loan and Secondhand Dealers Foundation (CLSD Foundation; 501c(3) in process) is a philanthropic organization founded by the Collateral Loan and Secondhand Dealers Association of California. CLSDA encourages its extensive network of California pawnbrokers to take part in the CLSD Foundation through both donations and hands-on involvement.

Recently, CLSDA members donated a variety of musical instruments to the CLSD Foundation. As a direct result of their generosity, the CLSD Foundation completed its first distribution of musical instruments to the students of Lincoln High School in San Jose, CA.

This was the first step in their ultimate goal of a statewide outreach program collecting and then furnishing underprivileged California schools, grades K-12, with quality musical instruments.

According to CLSDA Board President Robert Verhoeff, Lincoln High School was an ideal candidate for the program. “The school recently had most of its band instruments stolen and had no funds to replace them,” he said. “It was fortunate that through our Foundation we were able to rally the California pawn community to provide more than 24 quality instruments to the school.”

Lincoln High School music teacher Kate Meyer said in all of her years of teaching this is the most extraordinary thing she has ever seen. “We are very grateful to the CLSD Foundation for its efforts.”

“While pawnbrokers have always been actively involved in their community through business and social organizations, we felt we could utilize our industry’s knowledge and individual members’ love for music to provide badly needed support for various musical programs,” Verhoeff said. “We see this as just the beginning of how our industry and its members can give back to our communities through this Foundation.”

The Importance of Music Education

Respondents of a recent Harris Poll cite skills they learned in music as helping them in their careers today. Seventy-two percent of adults with music education agree that it equips people to be better team players in their career and nearly six in ten agree that music education has influenced their creative problem solving skills. Many also agree music education provides a disciplined approach to problem solving, a sense of organization and prepares someone to manage the tasks of their job more successfullyOther studies show the value of music programs to our future generations:

• Students in top quality music programs scored 22 percent higher in English and 20 percent higher in math on standardized tests mandated by the No Child Left Behind Act (University of Kansas).

• In 2006, SAT takers with coursework in music performance scored 57 points higher on the verbal portion of the test and 43 points higher on the math portion (The College Board, Profile of College-Bound Seniors National Report for 2006).